Welcome Office hosted the second edition of its International Staff Week from 18 to 22 May 2026, bringing together university professionals dedicated to supporting international students, researchers, employees, and academic communities.
Organised under the title Intercultural Connections: Advancing Support for International Communities, the staff week focused on the vital role of support centres in creating welcoming, inclusive, and well-connected university environments. The event formed part of an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme and offered participants space to exchange experience, share good practice, and explore new approaches to international community services.
Throughout the week, participants took part in presentations, workshops, discussions, and networking activities. The programme addressed a wide range of topics connected to international support, including well-being, intercultural sensitivity, communication, university welcome services, cooperation with external partners, and the use of digital tools and social media in reaching international students and staff.
The opening day introduced participants to the aims of the programme and created space for engagement and institutional exchange. Further sessions focused on support tools through well-being, the development of welcoming university environments, and the role of communication skills in international services. Participants also had the opportunity to visit selected university services, including the Institute of Social Health.
A significant part of the programme was dedicated to intercultural competence and supportive environments. Sessions explored the role of ombudsperson in higher education, crisis communication, and practical ways to respond to the diverse needs of international communities. The programme also highlighted onboarding practices for international researchers and employees, as well as community engagement and intercultural connection.
The staff week combined professional development with opportunities for informal networking and cultural exchange. A guided tour of Olomouc, cultural and social activities, shared lunches, and final networking moments helped participants connect beyond the workshop setting and experience the academic atmosphere of Palacký University and the city.
By creating a platform for dialogue among colleagues from different university contexts, International Staff Week 2026 supported the exchange of ideas and strengthened cooperation in the field of international student and staff services. The event underlined the importance of moving beyond basic welcome support toward long-term belonging, community building, and meaningful intercultural connection.
