University of Twente, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, ZGT hospital and Oost NL organized the fifth EUVECA partner meeting in Enschede.
The 5th partner meeting of the EUVECA project occurred in Enschede from June 10th to 12th, 2024, gathering all project partners from seven European regions. Launched in 2022, the EUVECA initiative aims to equip healthcare and care professionals with essential skills for the future. EUVECA, which stands for EUropean platform for Vocational Excellence in Health Care, focuses on training professionals in digital and communication skills, as well as fostering inter- and multidisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Future-proof healthcare
The partner meeting kicked off with a pre-conference session held at Saxion University of Applied Sciences, hosted by the Technology, Care & Healthcare research group. This session focused on research and educational initiatives aligned with the EUVECA project, highlighting Saxion University’s expertise in technology adoption and implementation in practical settings, as well as in training professionals for future challenges. Participants also visited the XR Lab for Health and Wellbeing as part of the session.
EUVECA-platform with learning activities
During the EUVECA partner meeting, the European Platform for Vocational Excellence (EPVE) was showcased. Numerous learning activities were unveiled, which will soon be accessible through the EUVECA platform. Scheduled for launch in September, the platform will serve as a starting point for students and professionals to engage with and evaluate the learning and training materials provided.
Bachelor students from Saxion University’s Smart Solutions Semester and a student from the master’s program in Educational Science & Technology at the University of Twente collaborated to share their expertise during the EUVECA partner meeting. They presented project outcomes focusing on integrating the megatrends into nursing and social work curricula. Additionally, they explored the influence of professional identity on learning strategies, particularly in enhancing future-proof skills among Dutch hospital nurses.
Development of regional hubs
Significant progress was made in advancing the development of the Regional Vocational Excellence Hubs (RVEH) during the EUVECA partner meeting. Representatives from the seven regions—Norway, Denmark, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Spain—presented their respective Governance models. These models encompassed the Purpose, People, Process, and Product aspects of their regional hubs, highlighting their structured approach to fostering vocational excellence across Europe.
Inspiring activities
The partner meeting balanced substantive workshops with engaging social activities. Participants enjoyed an art and architecture walk across the campus, and visited the Techmed Center, where the University of Twente showcased their advanced simulation facilities. In addition to these informative sessions, there were opportunities for relaxation and team building, including a morning yoga session, traditional Dutch games like ‘kubb’ and “graanzak smiet’n” (beanbag throwing), and a bicycle tour through Enschede, complete with typical Dutch weather experiences.
The partners are eager to strengthen their collaboration and advance the development of the Twente Regional Vocational Excellence Hub. This initiative involves Saxion University of Applied Sciences, ZGT, University of Twente, and Oost NL. The project, part of the Erasmus+ Program (ERASMUS), is scheduled to continue until June 2026.
Enjoy a video glimpse of the Enschede partner meeting!
