Advancing ODEI Through Legal Education: The Impact of Mentorship and Student Engagement
In an era where legal education is increasingly called upon to address real-world challenges, the role of mentorship and student engagement has never been more vital. This article highlights how the principles of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) can be effectively advanced through academic work that bridges theory and practice. By showcasing student research on domestic violence and the guidance of dedicated faculty, it demonstrates how legal education can move beyond the classroom to drive meaningful social change. We proudly recognize and commend the outstanding work of students from South East European University, Iva Stefanovska and Bojana Velkovska, authors of the article “From Silence to Visibility: The Role of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Preventing Domestic Violence.” This contribution reflects the core mission of our University: to foster academic excellence that is closely connected to societal impact. The students’ work demonstrates not only a high level of legal analysis, but also a strong sense of social responsibility. By addressing domestic violence through data, institutional critique, and a human rights perspective, they contribute meaningfully to raising awareness and fostering a culture of reporting, protection, and accountability. We particularly emphasize the essential role of their mentor, Prof. Dr. Arta Mero, Professor of Family Law and Inheritance Law and ODEI Officer at South East European University. Through her dedicated mentorship, students are guided not only to understand the legal framework, but also to critically engage with the realities behind the law. Her approach reflects the values of modern legal education, combining doctrinal knowledge with clinical insight, ethical responsibility, and a strong commitment to social justice. As ODEI Officer, her leadership ensures that the principles of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are not merely abstract ideals, but are actively integrated into teaching, research, and student engagement. This work is a clear example of how mentorship and institutional values come together to produce meaningful outcomes. The students’ analysis highlights the complexity of domestic violence, including its less visible forms, and underscores the need for stronger institutional coordination and more inclusive support systems. At the same time, the article powerfully advances the principles of ODEI: Such initiatives reflect our University’s commitment to developing future legal professionals who are not only knowledgeable, but also empathetic, engaged, and ready to contribute to a more just and inclusive society. We remain proud of our students and their mentor, whose work embodies the transformative power of education—turning knowledge into action, and action into societal change. Below you can read the full version of the article. FROM SILENCE TO VISIBILITY: THE ROLE OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION IN PREVENTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Domestic violence in North Macedonia is increasingly coming out of the shadows, and recent data show a concerning trend. In 2024 alone, 101 cases of psychological violence were reported—almost twice as many as in the previous two years, when 57 cases were recorded in 2022 and 56 in 2023. This increase may indicate two things: that violence is indeed rising, but also that victims are increasingly recognizing it and feel more encouraged to report it. Particularly concerning are the data from the Sector for Internal Affairs in Tetovo. In the period from 2022 to 2024, a total of 1,667 cases of domestic violence were reported, along with 28 cases of sexual violence. Although the number of sexual violence cases is significantly lower, an upward trend is evident, especially in cases involving minor victims. An additional problem is that data from different institutions often do not match. This points to insufficient inter-institutional coordination and the absence of a unified, functional system for monitoring cases of violence. Violence Has Many Faces and Not All Leave Bruises When discussing domestic violence, physical injury is often what first comes to mind. However, the reality is much broader. Psychological control, economic dependence, constant threats, humiliation, and forced sexual relations are also forms of violence that leave deep consequences, even though they are often not visible. Victims can be women, men, children, and elderly individuals—especially those who are economically or emotionally dependent on the abuser. Many do not recognize their situation as violence, as it often develops gradually and is disguised as “care,” “control out of love,” or “jealousy.” The reasons why victims remain silent are often similar: fear of retaliation, financial dependence, feelings of shame or guilt, as well as distrust in institutions. It is precisely this combination of factors that keeps violence hidden behind closed doors. Why ODEI Can Be Part of the Solution One of the concepts increasingly mentioned in violence prevention is ODEI—an acronym for Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This approach is applied by institutions and organizations worldwide to create fairer and more inclusive societies, where all individuals have equal access to rights, protection, and support. In the context of domestic violence, the principles of ODEI imply several important aspects. First, diversity reminds us that violence can occur in any family, regardless of education, social status, or cultural background. Second, equity ensures that every victim has fair and effective access to protection, institutional assistance, and legal support. Third, inclusion involves creating an environment in which victims are encouraged to speak out and seek help without fear of judgment or marginalization. When these principles are absent, violence is easily normalized. A culture of silence emerges, cases go unreported, and victims become isolated. Over time, patterns of violence are repeated and passed down from generation to generation. How the Findings Were Reached This research is based on an analysis of institutional reports from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and social services, available statistical data for the period 2022–2024, as well as information from crisis centers, non-governmental organizations, and victim support and protection programs. The data were compared to identify trends, discrepancies, and systemic weaknesses. The conclusion is clear: domestic violence is not a private matter, but a social responsibility. Greater visibility, accurate data, and the application of ODEI principles are the first steps from silence to protection, and from silence to justice. Combating domestic violence is not only about punishing perpetrators,
Communication Without Borders: From Academia to the Job Market
On March 19, Universidade Europeia de Lisboa hosted the workshop “Communication Without Borders: From Academia to the Job Market”, an excellent initiative led by Professor Joana Ramalho, aimed at equipping students with the critical communication tools necessary for a successful transition from the academic ecosystem to the global job market. The workshop was grounded in the understanding that presence and non-verbal communication precede verbal interaction, and therefore placed strong emphasis on developing communication awareness as a foundational professional skill. Participants were encouraged to reflect on how posture, tone, and non-verbal cues shape first impressions and influence collaboration in professional contexts. Throughout the session, students worked on strengthening functional and collaborative communication skills, particularly in multidisciplinary and multicultural team settings. The training supported participants in clearly articulating their academic and professional identities, helping them adapt their discourse to different audiences, contexts, and institutional cultures — a key competence in today’s dynamic and international labour market. Developed within the framework of ChallengeEU – the European Universities Alliance, the workshop highlighted the importance of intercultural intelligence and the ability to decode diverse professional and cultural contexts. Students were encouraged to recognise their international academic experiences not only as learning opportunities, but also as strategic assets and differentiating factors in their future careers. By fostering self-awareness, adaptability, and communication clarity, the workshop contributed to preparing students for meaningful engagement in global professional environments. Initiatives such as Communication Without Borders reinforce the role of higher education institutions in supporting holistic student development — bridging academic excellence with employability, intercultural competence, and lifelong learning.
The M.A.R.K.E.T. Student Pop-Up: Launch of ChallengeEU Youth Mental Health Initiative at SEEU
The ChallengeEU project’s initiative on youth mental health launched yesterday at the Tetovo Campus, marking a significant step in addressing the psychological complexities facing Generation Z. The event opened with a focus on the ODEI initiative, where Prof. Arta Mero emphasized South East European University’s (SEEU) commitment to the values of Opportunity, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This framework reflects the commitment of the ChallengeEU pillar to fostering a campus culture where mental health is treated as an essential component of a truly inclusive academic community. The M.A.R.K.E.T. Student Pop-Up served as a hands-on outreach activity aimed at directly connecting students with available mental health support. A key focus was introducing students to the Impact Lab, led by Prof. Shpresa Alija, informing them about its purpose, the resources it offers, and how to register and make use of its services. The M.A.R.K.E.T. Officer role was also highlighted as the key bridge between the Impact Lab’s institutional research and the student community, ensuring these resources are clearly communicated and genuinely accessible. The highlight of the session was an expert lecture by Prof. Dr. Naser Durmishi, a distinguished neuropsychiatrist and SEEU professor. Dr. Durmishi provided a deep dive into the neurological trends shaping Gen Z, offering clinical insights into the unique stressors this generation faces while providing actionable strategies for resilience. With the Tetovo session successfully concluded, the dialogue continues on April 2, at the Amphitheater on the Skopje Campus from 11:00 to 12:30, inviting the community to further engage with these critical topics.
Universidade Europeia Celebrates National Student Day with Live Broadcast from Oriente Green Campus
On National Student Day, 24 March, Universidade Europeia de Lisboa hosted a special live broadcast by NOW Television Channel, transmitted directly from the University’s new sustainable campus, the Oriente Green Campus, in Moscavide. Throughout the day, the campus welcomed several distinguished guests who shared important reflections on higher education and the role of students in shaping the future. Among those interviewed were the Minister of Education, Fernando Alexandre, and the University’s Rector, Helia Gonçalves Pereira, who highlighted key perspectives on education within an open and engaging dialogue with the academic community. This initiative marked National Student Day in a meaningful and visible way, celebrating the talent, commitment, and diversity of the University’s students — who stand at the very heart of the mission of Universidade Europeia de Lisboa. The Oriente Green Campus was also showcased as a symbol of innovation and sustainability, reflecting the University’s commitment to forward-looking education, social responsibility, and strong connections with society. More than a symbolic celebration, the day served as a source of inspiration to continue striving for excellence, reinforcing the belief that students are always at the centre of the University — at the core of learning, innovation, and the development of an active, inclusive, and global academic community. Celebrating National Student Day in this way reaffirms the University’s purpose: to educate engaged, critical, and future-ready citizens in an environment that values knowledge, people, and positive social impact.
Self-Defence Sessions Promote Physical Activity and Community Well-being at Universidade Europeia de Lisboa
As part of the Month of Physical Activity and Sport, the Campus Life initiative at Universidade Europeia de Lisboa organised a series of practical self-defence sessions, bringing together members of the academic community in an engaging and empowering experience. The sessions took place across different university locations, including Oriente Green Campus, Quinta do Bom Nome, and IPAM Lisboa. They were open to students, academic staff, and professional staff, encouraging broad participation and intergenerational exchange. Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the activities required no prior experience and focused on developing personal safety skills, self-confidence, and physical well-being. Beyond the technical aspects of self-defence, the initiative highlighted the importance of regular physical activity as a key contributor to both physical and mental health. Engaging in activities like these helps reduce stress, enhance focus, and support overall quality of life within the academic environment. Equally important was the role of the event in strengthening interpersonal relationships within the university. Moments like these, where students, teachers, and staff participate side by side, contribute to a stronger sense of belonging, mutual trust, and community cohesion. These informal and collaborative settings foster dialogue, connection, and a more human-centred academic culture. By creating opportunities that combine physical activity, learning, and social interaction, Campus Life at Universidade Europeia de Lisboa continues to promote a holistic approach to well-being—where academic excellence goes hand in hand with health, inclusion, and meaningful community engagement.
Building Bridges Through Mobility: FHNW Representative Visits UEV
Luca Niederhauser from Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz (FHNW) visited university in Valencia as part of the Mobility Program Visit at Universidad Europea de Valencia (UEV). The visit provided an opportunity to strengthen institutional ties, exchange best practices, and explore new avenues for academic cooperation between the partner universities. Mr. Niederhauser represents Hochschule für Angewandte Psychologie, specifically the Zentrum für Ausbildung. This visit is part of a mobility initiative linked to Work Package 3 (WP3) of the European university alliance ChallengeEU, in which both FHNW and UEV are active partners. During his stay in Valencia, Mr. Niederhauser participated in a comprehensive program designed to strengthen inter-institutional collaboration and promote the exchange of best practices. His visit included a series of academic, administrative, and cultural activities, such as: a guided tour and in-depth explanation of the Alameda Campus; job shadowing in the area of innovation and the development of new academic programmes with Ana Ferrer, Dulce Gómez, and Alberto Garcés; and a presentation on the ChallengeEU network delivered by Laura Bertolin (WP4 Officer) and Emmanuël Hazé (ChallengeEU, CIO). Professional exchange with Luz Barradas focusing on quality management, a guided tour and detailed presentation of the Turia Campus, a discussion with Ana Povoa on the Psychology degree programme, an exchange with Christian Garzoni on the admissions process, and a visit to a Psychology class to observe teaching practices. Beyond the academic agenda, Mr. Niederhauser also had the opportunity to discover the rich culture, traditions, and gastronomy of the city of Valencia, gaining a deeper appreciation of its local identity. These exchanges not only enrich the experience of visiting staff, but also strengthen the relationships between partner universities within the ChallengeEU alliance, fostering trust and mutual understanding. They also open the door to new avenues of academic collaboration, from program development to joint initiatives that contribute to the internationalisation of higher education. The European University of Valencia extends its warmest thanks to Mr. Niederhauser for his visit and looks forward to future cooperation with FHNW within the ChallengeEU framework.
ChallengeEU Ambassadors: The Alliance Integrates European Students
From February 9–13, the ChallengeEU Ambassadors Week took place at Universidad Europea de Valencia, a university that co-creates the ChallengeEU alliance. Students participated in workshops and other educational activities, became familiar with the university and its campus, and had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Spanish culture. Julia Wysocka and Temitope Francis share their impressions of the trip and their experience serving as ambassadors of the alliance. What memories did you bring back from your trip to Valencia? Julia Wysocka (J.W.): It was one of the best trips of my life, largely thanks to the weather (laughs), but speaking seriously, the most valuable part was meeting the other ambassadors. Already during our visit to Hochschule Offenburg last December [in Germany, at the leader of the ChallengeEU alliance – editor’s note], I was surprised by how quickly we bonded. Even though we come from so many different countries, speak many languages, and follow different religions, we formed a close-knit group. That’s why, for me, the most important lesson from such trips is that if we remain open, no borders will exist. Temitope Francis (T.F.): For me, it was also very important that I could meet people from all over the world. It broadened my horizons and opened my eyes to the fact that no matter where we come from, we are all the same, because we are all human. I am also very glad that I had the chance to meet students studying fields other than journalism — it was a very interesting experience for me. Temi, at the university in Valencia you gave a presentation on how the war in Ukraine is portrayed in Polish media compared to Western media coverage. What kind of reception did you receive? T.F.: I’m glad I had that opportunity and I’m satisfied, especially since the students were very interested in the topic, as shown by the many questions I received after the presentation. For example, they were curious about where reliable and up-to-date information on the war in Ukraine can be found. And for you, Julia, what was the most instructive among all the activities you took part in? J.W.: I really enjoyed all the workshops and training sessions. They convinced me that practice is more important than theory. This became especially clear during the workshops where we talked about openness, diversity, equality, inclusivity, and different cultures. There was a presentation followed by a discussion, but what mattered most to me was that we could also share our own experiences and reflections. For example, it turned out that we do not always fully understand the limitations faced by people with disabilities — if we do not experience similar challenges ourselves, we simply do not notice them. That is why it is important to keep our eyes wide open. Were you asked questions about Poland and the University of Warmia and Mazury? J.W.: Yes, we were asked about Poland many times. Already during the first workshop devoted to Spanish culture and the Spanish language, we shared linguistic and cultural differences. However, the topic came up most strongly during a meeting with students who had decided to participate in the Erasmus program and were going to Poland or were still choosing — for example, between Germany and Poland. Rafał [Pirsztuk — UWM ambassador in the ChallengeEU alliance — editor’s note] and I shared the Polish perspective, while Temi and Georden [Shaw — UWM ambassador in the alliance — editor’s note] talked about what it is like to be an international student at the University of Warmia and Mazury. I’m glad that others are curious about our country, our culture, and what studying here is like, and I must admit I haven’t heard any stereotypes about Polish people. T.F.: We all spoke very positively about the University of Warmia and Mazury — truthfully so, because if we felt otherwise, we would not be studying here, although each of us has a slightly different perspective. I think it was an excellent opportunity to promote our university, which we did. I would also like to add that for us, international students, being able to study here is something wonderful. I have also studied at other universities, including in Greece and Romania, so I also have experience from different places around Europe. It is worth emphasizing that no other university has a campus like Kortowo — not even Universidad Europea de Valencia (laughs). As for Poland, we see only two downsides: the Polish language, because it is very difficult, and the weather, because it is too cold (laughs). How do you find yourselves in the role of UWM ambassadors in the ChallengeEU alliance? J.W.: At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it turned out to be a fantastic experience. And it’s not even about the opportunity to travel to other universities — the most valuable part, which I would like to emphasize once again, is meeting the other ambassadors. We have grown very close and remain in constant contact. If it weren’t for ChallengeEU, we probably would not have had the chance to meet, and even if we had, we wouldn’t have had something that connects us so strongly. Moreover, thanks to this role, we learn many interesting and useful things, for example how to apply for various European programs, and we have the opportunity to take part in valuable training sessions. Every day I am grateful that my application to become a ChallengeEU ambassador was accepted. T.F.: For me, as a student from another continent, being an ambassador of the ChallengeEU alliance has opened me up to Europe — its advantages, problems, and challenges. It is an honor to serve in this role and to participate in all these meetings, which are based on the ideas of openness, diversity, and inclusivity. It shows that Poland is very open and attentive to what people of other nationalities have to say, and the fact that the alliance’s ambassadors come from different continents demonstrates that even if we are
Universidade Europeia de Lisboa Recognised as a Great Place to Work
The Universidade Europeia de Lisboa has been officially recognised as a Great Place to Work, a distinction that highlights the University’s strong commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive working environment. This recognition reflects the collective effort of the entire academic community — including academic staff, professional staff, and leadership — in fostering a culture based on trust, collaboration, respect, and well-being. It acknowledges the value placed on people, their professional development, and the importance of creating conditions where everyone can grow and thrive. Being certified as a Great Place to Work reinforces the University’s focus on employee well-being, work–life balance, and continuous improvement. It also recognises the role of inclusive practices, open communication, and shared values in building a strong sense of belonging and engagement across the institution. This achievement is not only a source of pride, but also a responsibility. It encourages the Universidade Europeia de Lisboa to continue investing in people-centred practices, leadership development, and a healthy organisational culture that supports excellence in teaching, research, and service to society. The Great Place to Work recognition is a testament to what can be achieved when an institution places its community at the heart of its mission — and it motivates us to keep moving forward together, with purpose and confidence.
The ChallengeEU Mentoring Programme has officially launched
On Monday, January 19, and Thursday, January 22, meetings officially inaugurating the ChallengeEU Mentoring Programme took place. The programme is coordinated by the University of Warmia and Mazury. The ChallengeEU Mentoring Programme aims to provide students with support from European professionals, boost their self-confidence and skills, and help them define their career paths – all through mentoring rooted in the idea of ODEI (Openness, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion). During the first kick-off meeting, participants were welcomed by Prof. Paweł Wielgosz, Rector’s Representative for European Universities, while the second meeting was opened by Prof. Tobias Hagen, Vice-Rector for Internationalisation at Hochschule Offenburg and Chair of the ChallengeEU Alliance. Both speakers spoke about the ChallengeEU Alliance and the role the mentoring programme plays within it. They also expressed their thanks to everyone involved in the programme and to those who showed interest in participating Starting together The main idea behind the kick-off meetings was to allow all mentors and mentees to inaugurate the programme together and to ensure they knew what to expect in the subsequent stages. “The mentoring programme is of great importance to the ChallengeEU Alliance, as it represents a direct investment in what is most valuable – people. It demonstrates that UWM, as the programme organiser and a member of the alliance, is committed to implementing the principles of ODEI. This is crucial for building a culture of openness and development,” said Prof. Katarzyna Ćwirynkało from the Faculty of Social Sciences and ODEI Officer in the ChallengeEU Alliance. The ChallengeEU Mentoring Programme is addressed to all students at universities participating in the alliance. Mentors may include academic staff as well as professionals from outside the academic community, including entrepreneurs. In total, 75 mentors and 79 mentees applied. During the meetings, participants became familiar with essential information about how the programme works, what it involves, and what will take place in the coming weeks. They also had the opportunity to meet the team from the University of Warmia and Mazury responsible for organising the initiative. The team includes Prof. Katarzyna Ćwirynkało, Dr Monika Ryndzionek and Agata Przyborowska, MA, supported by members of Work Package 5. The first edition of the mentoring programme within the ChallengeEU Alliance will last approximately six months. A minimum of five mentor–mentee meetings is planned, which will primarily take place online (with the option of meeting on university campuses). Both mentors and mentees will receive certificates of participation upon completion of the programme. A dose of essential knowledge After both inauguration meetings, training sessions for mentors were held and led by Dr Monika Ryndzionek. During these sessions, mentors learned about their roles, received practical tools and tips to help them fulfil their responsibilities, and became thoroughly familiar with the goals of the ChallengeEU Alliance mentoring programme. Each training session lasted 75 minutes. “The idea behind mentoring programmes is to learn from more experienced people in various areas and fields of life, as mentors may include university staff, representatives of non-governmental organisations, or entrepreneurs. However, it is worth remembering that mentors also develop through this process, for example by sharing their experience,” emphasised Dr Monika Ryndzionek from the Faculty of Social Sciences, an ODEI expert in the ChallengeEU Alliance. Photo by: Freepik.com
AI in higher education discussed at the Online Café meeting
On December 18, ChallengeEU organized its first Online Café on Artificial Intelligence, bringing together professors from across the Alliance to share institutional practices, ethical guidelines, and innovative solutions for AI integration in higher education. ChallengeEU Online Café was dedicated to one of the most transformative topics in academia today: Artificial Intelligence in higher education. The aim of the meeting was to create a collegial and open space for discussion, where professors and academic staff could meet peers facing similar questions, exchange experiences, and gather ideas for their own pedagogical practice. The conversation was broadly structured around three overarching questions: how are institutions framing and supervising students’ use of AI?; in what ways can AI enrich teaching and course activities?; what governance, support mechanisms, and ethical frameworks are needed for responsible AI use? This session brought together four speakers from four ChallengeEU partner universities, each offering brief insights into AI-related initiatives developed at their institutions. Sara Gancho from Universidade Europeia de Lisoboa showcased institutional initiatives: AI Best Practices Awards, professor training and ethical guidelines. Florije Ismaili from Southeast European University presented AI@SEU, a system with three modules to streamline admissions, academic guidance, and research support. Ingus Šmits from Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies addressed challenges of generative AI in student work and lecturer training to ensure integrity. Etienne Bossy from ECAM LaSalle shared experience with AI detection tools and mandatory AI usage forms, aiming to balance transparency, ethics, and practical assessment in engineering education. These presentations were followed by breakout room sessions, which allowed professors to interact more deeply on this topic. In the future, further events from the Online Café series will take place. Photo: www.freepik.com
