Part of the ECIU University Forum, Team Impact Award is an opportunity for learners, teachers, researchers and staff to share their ECIU University stories – whether about the impact they were able to make as part of it, or the effect ECIU University has had on them.

In 2024, several community members applied for the Team Impact Award to talk about their experience with ECIU University, the skills they gained through it and how it changed their perspective on things.  

While there could only be one winner, all the participants’ stories were nothing short of inspiring – spotlighting the transformative power of ECIU University.  

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A different way of learning

One of the runners-up, Bowen Zhang, a human-computer interaction and computer sciences master student at the University of Trento, shared his experience participating in several ECIU University learning opportunities – from learning the basics of pitching during a micro-module to exchanging knowledge with other computer sciences students during a challenge at INSA Toulouse (France).

For Bowen, ECIU University’s community is one of its greatest strengths – helping students from all over the world learn, connect and embrace new approaches. He was also able to gain more confidence by communicating with fellow learners.

‘During the discussion period, I used to feel nervous when facing students and teachers – but I overcame this and just started talking,’ he says. ‘Thanks to ECIU University, it’s now easier for me to speak to people and share my perspective.  

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A new path, a new perspective

João Santos from the University of Aveiro participated in over 12 ECIU University learning opportunities – and decided to embark on a completely new path because of them. João realised he wanted to switch from physics to environmental engineering in his studies, focusing on bioplastics and circular economy. And that was far from all that he gained.

‘At ECIU University, I was able to learn about a wide range of topics not usually covered in university – how to develop a project, conduct research effectively, and work in a team,’ he shares.

One of the latest challenges João took part in was ‘Make second hand the first choice’, hosted by Kaunas University of Technology in collaboration with the online marketplace Vinted.

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‘Participating in the challenge deepened my appreciation for teamwork, as our group brought together different strengths and viewpoints, complementing each other perfectly.’ João says. ‘This experience has strengthened my collaboration skills and reinforced my passion for sustainable fashion.’

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Challenging your way of thinking

Katungye Johnson who's pursuing a master’s degree in computer sciences at the University of Trento, saw ECIU University learning opportunities as a unique chance to challenge himself.

He participated in challenges that focused on machine learning and artificial intelligence, gaining not only valuable new skills and connections – but also inspiration.

‘I deepened my understanding of machine learning, its applications, and the potential problems it can solve. I now feel more confident in my ability to innovate and inspire change within my community using these new skills’, Johnson explains.

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A rewarding experience

When discussing their ECIU University journeys the participants agree – it’s an experience like no other.

‘I would highly encourage other learners to join ECIU University’ says Johnson. ‘It's a remarkable opportunity to broaden your knowledge, connect with like-minded students, and develop skills that are relevant in today's rapidly evolving world. The experience may be challenging – but also rewarding.’  

‘ECIU University has the potential to make a substantial global impact by fostering innovation and collaboration across borders’ adds João. ‘The challenges and micro-modules offer students like me invaluable learning experiences beyond traditional education.’

‘ECIU provides a powerful platform for students to tackle real-world issues, collaborate and make an impact. It would be an honour to continue being part of such a transformative European project’.

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ECIU University Forum 2025 will take place at the University of Trento on June 10-11, 2025 – with Innovation for Sustainable Futures chosen as the main topic.

Applications for the Team Impact Award are now open. If you have been part of ECIU University learning opportunities and experiences and want to share this journey with the community – be sure to apply and inspire others with your story.

Learn more about the Award and the application process below.