From April 7–11, 2025, the Welcome Office at Palacký University Olomouc had the distinct pleasure of hosting colleagues from around the world for our International Staff Week, held under the theme "Break Boundaries, Build Bridges: Innovative Strategies for International Community Services." After months of careful planning and anticipation, the week unfolded with great enthusiasm, collaboration, and meaningful exchange.
The week was officially opened with remarks from Rector Martin Procházka and Alena Vyskočilová, Head of the Welcome Office. For many of our international guests, this was their first visit to Olomouc—and we were delighted to introduce them to both our university and the historic charm of our city.
On Tuesday, the programme shifted its focus to well-being. Despite the rain outside, our building on Vodární 6 was filled with energy and engagement. The day began with a meditative session led by ambassador Peter Daud, accompanied by Maria on guitar, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. This was followed by a yoga class led by Martin Kudláček, offering a refreshing pause in the day’s agenda.
The morning sessions set the tone for a productive afternoon. In a workshop led by Pavel Flekač, participants collaborated on strategies for improving support services for international students. The day concluded with a visit to the Institute of Social Health (OUSHI), where Eva Migaľová introduced attendees to the Motivational Interviewing method—a valuable tool for effective and empathetic communication.
Wednesday’s programme took participants to the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, where ambassador Chu Kung-Te provided a brief tour. The day’s academic focus centered on cultural competence in student support services. Ombudspersons Jaroslav Šotola and Michaela Antonín Malaníková led thought-provoking sessions examining the role of culture in shaping institutional responses within globally engaged universities.
To end the day, participants visited the local brewery TVARG, where they were introduced to the unique regional delicacy, Olomouc tvarůžky, and enjoyed a relaxed evening exploring local traditions and culinary heritage.
On Thursday, the programme returned to the Welcome Office for a full day of professional exchange. The morning began with a light-hearted session reflecting on participants’ first work experiences, led by ambassador Inna Arakelova. This was followed by presentations from Markéta Šemberová and Zuzana Pejpková, who outlined the initiatives of the university’s Career Centre supporting student employability and career development.
Veronika Poláková then provided insights into the legal and administrative support available to foreign employees. Following a short break, Vendula Lužná shared best practices for science communication, and Hana Kupková from CATRIN offered practical strategies for leading effective international teams.
Further enriching the day, Kateřina Biolková highlighted the university’s collaboration with the Archdiocesan Charity and the day was completed with a lovely presentation from Lisa Du of the Confucius Institute, highlighting the vibrant international community here in Olomouc.
The final day of the programme took place in the university’s historic Konvikt building. Ambassador Kivanc Gordu led a reflective session, encouraging participants to look back on the week’s shared experiences, key learnings, and connections formed.
The programme concluded with a presentation by Michaela Oplíštilová and Michal Urban from Dům zahraniční spolupráce, who offered an overview of current internationalisation trends in higher education. The week came to a close with a certificate ceremony, graciously led by Jitka Králová.
On behalf of the entire Welcome Office team, we extend our sincere thanks to all participants for their contributions, insights, and enthusiasm. We are equally grateful to our colleagues, guest speakers, and ambassadors whose expertise and dedication made this week such a success.
While we bid farewell to our guests, we are confident that this is only the beginning of many future collaborations. We look forward to continuing the conversations started here and to welcoming our colleagues back to Olomouc again soon.
The UP Welcome Office Team
