MCI and the University of Ostrava strengthen cooperation

The MCI department of Social Work and the University of Ostrava are providing new impetus for research, exchange, and cooperation

MCI department of Social Work recently welcomed two representatives from the University of Ostrava in the Czech Republic: Romana Nyklová (Faculty Administrative Coordinator) and Daniela Vojkovská (Financial Manager and Timetable Officer) from the Faculty of Social Studies. The focus of their visit was an in-depth professional exchange on topics related to research support and project development. In addition, potential areas for future collaboration between the two universities were explored, laying an important foundation for deeper international cooperation.

Particular emphasis was placed on organizing pre-award counseling and supporting researchers during the application phase. In addition, national, European, and international funding opportunities, various funding tracks, and suitable project formats were discussed. The establishment and sustainable development of collaborations with companies and other partners from the commercial sector were also part of the professional exchange.

The research and development team at MCI | The Entrepreneurial School^® also provided guests with insight into the practical implementation of these support services. In further discussions with representatives from MCI’s CSHI (Center for Social & Health Innovation) and the “Social & Health Care Services” research focus area, current research topics, shared interests, and potential points of connection for future projects were discussed.

In addition to collaboration in the area of research and development, the MCI department of Social Work and the University of Ostrava are currently exploring the possibility of an Erasmus exchange program. Such a program could provide students from both institutions with international learning experiences in the future and further deepen cooperation in the field of Social Work.

The department of Social Work has also recently become part of the European Research Institute for Social Work (ERIS), which was founded by the Faculty of Social Studies at the University of Ostrava. ERIS aims to conduct scientific research and systematic reviews in all relevant areas of Social Work, build a knowledge-based information database, and promote the professional development of early-career researchers and academic staff. In addition, the institute provides expertise to policymakers and organizations throughout Europe, supports the development of best-practice approaches, and offers knowledge and professional development opportunities for leaders and practitioners.

Membership in the ERIS network is of great importance to MCI | The Entrepreneurial School^®. It enhances the international visibility of the department of Social Work, facilitates access to a European network of researchers, and opens up new opportunities for joint research projects and grant proposals. At the same time, faculty and students benefit from cutting-edge scientific knowledge and international perspectives. In this way, the collaboration makes an important contribution to further internationalization, the strengthening of research activities, and practice-oriented development at MCI | The Entrepreneurial School^®.