The programme was designed and delivered by the FOI academic team consisting of Assoc. Prof. Martina Tomičić Furjan, BIP Coordinator, Assoc. Prof. Iva Gregurec, Prof. Katarina Tomičić-Pupek, and Assoc. Prof. Igor Pihir. The successful organisation and logistical implementation of the programme were supported by Izabela Oletić Tušek and Karla Franović from the FOI International Relations Centre.
Alongside the host institution, the Faculty of Organization and Informatics, the programme was implemented in cooperation with Karel de Grote University of Applied Sciences and Arts (Belgium), represented by Jurgen Heyman and Eddy Van Hemelrijck; the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Organizational Sciences (Serbia), represented by Assoc. Prof. Lena Đorđević Milutinović and Assoc. Prof. Radul Milutinović; the University of Alcalá (Spain), represented by Prof. Daniel Rodriguez; the University of Maribor, Faculty of Organizational Sciences (Slovenia), represented by Assist. Prof. Benjamin Urh and Tilen Medved; the George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș (Romania), represented by Roxana Stejerean; and the University of the Aegean (Greece), represented by Assist. Prof. Charalampos Alexopoulos.
The programme provided students with an opportunity to develop knowledge and practical skills in the field of sustainable digital transformation through a combination of virtual learning activities and an intensive on-site week in Varaždin. Through lectures, workshops, mentoring sessions, and individual and team-based work, international student teams developed innovative and sustainable digital solutions to real-life business challenges.
Recognising that digital transformation has evolved from simple technology implementation to the strategic orchestration of organisational change, the programme focused on helping participants move to the "next level" by reshaping organisations through the synergy of sustainability and digital transformation.
As part of the BIP, participants also took part in a field visit to Terme Sveti Martin, the programme's selected case study organisation. During the visit, they learned first-hand about the company's sustainability initiatives and current challenges through a presentation delivered by Jelena Petrošanec, Head of Marketing and Events. The visit also enabled participants to engage directly with organisational representatives as future users of their innovative solutions and receive valuable feedback on the feasibility and practical application of their ideas.
In addition, the international teams developed prototypes of their solution concepts at Makerspace Varaždin under the mentorship of Ivan Todorović, Programme Manager. These prototypes further enriched the final presentations of the teams' innovative concepts.
Alongside the academic programme, participants enjoyed a variety of social and networking activities, including a Welcome Dinner & Drinks, Pub Quiz & Karaoke Night, and a Goodbye Party. These events provided valuable opportunities to get to know one another, exchange experiences, and strengthen international connections in an informal setting.
Once again, the programme demonstrated the value of Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programmes as an excellent format for international collaboration. Through this initiative, students and academic staff enhanced their professional and intercultural competences, exchanged knowledge and good practices, and established new international partnerships.
Here are a few reflections from the participants:
I really enjoyed meeting students from different countries and working together on a real-life challenge. The workshops were interactive, the lecturers were knowledgeable, and the overall atmosphere was very friendly and motivating.
I really enjoyed being part of this BIP. It was a wonderful experience that allowed me to learn many new things, both academically and personally. The program was well organized, and I appreciated the effort that the organizers and teachers put into making every activity engaging and enjoyable….Overall, this BIP exceeded my expectations. I am very grateful to everyone who contributed to making this experience so special. Thank you for your dedication, kindness, and hard work. I will remember this week with great happiness, and I truly hope to have the opportunity to participate in similar programs again in the future.
I liked meeting new people and learning about different cultures and concepts.
It was a new experience for me to visit a new country and learn something new. The group project we worked on was also a new experience for me, and I learned many valuable things from it.
I would just like to thank everyone who made this BIP course possible. The organizers, teachers, and mentors put a lot of effort into creating a welcoming, inspiring, and enjoyable experience, and I truly appreciate all of their hard work.
This program gave me not only new knowledge and skills but also unforgettable memories and meaningful friendships. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a positive international community.
