VMP: Citizens’ engagement in HEI curriculum

In this workshop we presented experience from the University of Zagreb in developing service-learning programs. University of Zagreb has demonstrated an institutional support that would enhance development of new curriculum based on service – learning. Several project calls were specifically designed for such programs. The most important ones were Erasmus+ KA2 project Europe Engage - Developing a Culture of Civic Engagement through Service-Learning within Higher Education in Europe (2015-2017) and ESF call for proposals “Support to the development of partnerships of civil society organizations and higher education institutions for the implementation of service-learning programs” (2018-2020) (over 150 eligible project proposals, 27 granted projects). The interesting point about later one is that HEI institutions could be only partners, while NGOs were entitled as project leaders. This gave additional incentive for collaboration between university and societal stakeholders. Additionally, at the University of Zagreb an office for service – learning has been established. Additionally, we presentated examples of service-learning programs and a course “Service-Learning and Social Interventions” held at the University of Zagreb, Faculty of Law, Social Work Study Centre. Based on Zagreb expirience, in an open discussion we pointed on several obstacles that should be overcome in order to fully develop service learning programs. These are: lack of human resources, lack of knowledge or motivation, the way courses are structured in one semestar, lack of institutional structures and support. We also cncluded that there are opportunities to develop international cources based on service- learning approach and that UNIC alliance is an excellent surrounding for such initatives.