Reflections from EAIE 2025

The European Association for International Education (EAIE) annual Conference and Exhibition was organized this year in Gothenburg, gathering over 7000 participants from 106 countries across the globe. Humak was also represented among this impressive group of experts in the field: Netta Humalamäki, Erasmus coordinator, as a first-timer and Kim Lindblad, Manager of International Affairs as a more seasoned participant.

The EAIE 2025 Conference in Gothenburg featured a diverse four-day program that included keynote speeches, interactive sessions, workshops, exhibitions, and networking events.

Strengthening the partnerships

The EAIE Conference and Exhibition was an excellent opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives of partner institutions, as well as explore new avenues for cooperation. While technology has significantly reduced the barriers to collaboration between institutions worldwide, in-person encounters remain irreplaceable. In a world full of emails and online meetings, these moments remind us of how powerful personal interaction can be. When you sit down together, share a coffee — or a rollercoaster ride, as we did — connections form naturally and trust soon follows.

During the week, we met with many colleagues from Humak’s partner institutions. New openings were made with the current partners in expanding the mobility agreements for other fields of study. Common interest was also found in RDI collaborations and traineeship mobilities, which we are eager to continue exploring. The focus was on strengthening the existing partnerships, learn about their current priorities, and discussing their perspectives on mobility—what works, what’s challenging, and what they hope to develop.

The week kicked off with the Opening Reception in Liseberg, the largest theme park in the Nordic countries. Guests were swept up in a festival-like atmosphere filled with laughter, music, and the thrill of the rides.

Shared challenges, shared solutions

Netta participated in sessions related to green mobility and sustainability, inclusive internationalisation, and students’ experiences on internationalisation. Kim contributed as a session host, facilitating discussions on unfunded European University Alliances.

The highlight of the week was meeting our international colleagues and discovering a sense of belonging within the global education community. Our discussions circled back to similar challenges — from resources and inclusion to sustainability and meaningful mobility. It was comforting to realize that we are not alone in navigating these issues. In line with the theme of the conference, GO-create, the solutions to the shared challenges must be co-created through open dialogue and collaboration.

The Exhibition Hall at Svenska Mässan buzzed with energy as higher education institutions from around the globe showcased their programs.

Growing as professionals

As a newcomer to EAIE, Netta found the experience empowering and inspiring. Engaging with colleagues, contributing to discussions, and representing Humak in this international arena boosted self-confidence and gave a strong sense of belonging in the field. The interactions with colleagues all around the world sparked new perspectives and encouraged continued growth within the field of global education. Returning from the conference, we carry with us renewed motivation and fresh ideas to apply in our work and professional development.

Authors:
Netta Humalamäki, BA, Planner, Humak University of Applied Sciences
Kim Lindblad, MEd, Manager of International Affairs, Humak University of Applied Sciences
Published: 12.11.2025
Series: Hartikkelit / Harticles
Publisher: Humak University of Applied Sciences