Blended Intensive Programmes combine physical (on-site) mobility with a virtual learning component. We developed a short-term blended course titled „Open Innovation Lab: Using design thinking to solve regional challenges of climate change”. This course is in line with the University of Economics in Katowice educational offer and expertise. In particular, our course is dedicated to students of land use, real estate and all those interested in the problem of transformation of regions in the face of climate change. In this sense, it adds to the education priorities in sustainable development, by enhancing students and institutions’ cross-border activities. 

The physical mobility within our BIP programme took place between 23-28 of October, 2023. We have planned an intensive week full of networking activities, inspirations and project work. It is completed by the virtual component that will last till mid December, 2023, with the intention to promote online cooperation and teamwork. 

The incoming students were also given a chance to learn about the history of our region (Upper Silesia) and social activities to strengthen their further collaboration over the project and challenge. 

It was the first BIP organised at the University of Economics in Katowice, with the support of Erasmus+ short term mobility grant.