From 2 to 6 June, Palacký University marked the 10th edition of its Erasmus+ International Staff Week, organized by the Division for International Cooperation in collaboration with the Faculty of Physical Culture (and APA Centre), the Support Centre for Students with Special Needs, and Fair University, this year’s edition focused on the theme of inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities in higher education. The event brought together university professionals from across Europe and beyond for a week of shared expertise, cultural exchange, and practical learning.
This year’s program featured a strong contribution from the Faculty of Physical Culture, which prepared several interactive workshops highlighting how physical activity and education can be adapted to meet diverse needs. The workshops were well received and appreciated for their practical focus and relevance to the theme of inclusion.
One of the sessions, “Swimming and Bouldering with Children,” allowed participants to observe inclusive sports instruction for children with autism, visual impairments, and physical disabilities. While the swimming lesson was observational, participants were invited to join the bouldering class and experience inclusive movement activities first-hand.
Another workshop, “In the Shoes of People with Visual Impairment and Reduced Mobility,” was prepared by the Support Centre for Students with Special Needs in collaboration with the Faculty of Physical Culture. It included three checkpoints: practical training in wheelchair handling, assistance techniques for people with visual impairments, and examples of adapted materials in haptic form. Participants also had the opportunity to learn about the activities of the APA Centre (Centre for Adapted Physical Activities) and explore adapted equipment designed for individuals with special needs.
Participants responded positively to the practical nature of the workshops and valued the opportunity to experience inclusion from new perspectives. These sessions helped translate theoretical discussions into hands-on understanding, which many found inspiring and useful for their own work.
Beyond the professional program, attendees also had the chance to discover the city of Olomouc, enjoy Czech gastronomy, and build connections with colleagues from different countries. The Faculty of Physical Culture welcomed visitors from partner universities in Canada, Spain, Finland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania and Poland —further strengthening international collaboration and opening new possibilities for future cooperation. The success of this year’s Erasmus+ International Staff Week underscored Palacký University’s ongoing commitment to promoting inclusion in higher education and the importance of collaboration across partner universities and support services in making that vision a reality.
