- Being part of BIP has inspired me to strive for positive change in the world.
In March, Kristiania organised an international Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) in collaboration with Griffith College Dublin, Odisee University of Applied Sciences and the University of Zaragoza.
What is a Blended Intensive Programme?
A BIP is a week-long exchange programme funded by the EU initiative Erasmus+, which combines academic teaching with practical company visits. The purpose is to promote international cooperation and cultural exchange by providing participants with a holistic learning experience that includes both theoretical and practical knowledge.
A total of 70 employees and students took part in the event, of which 25 were international. Associate professor Hanne Stavelie says she is impressed by both Kristiania’s students and those visiting from other countries.
- Hosting such an EU-funded education programme is a great honour for Kristiania. The event was very successful, thanks to the efforts of our staff and the good cooperation with our partner institutions. The commitment of lecturers and students contributed to critical reflection, discussion and self-development for everyone who participated, says Stavelie.
Company visits, diversity and sustainability
Special highlights that were emphasised by the students were the visits to the Nobel Peace Center and Vinmonopolet. Daniel Ginés, a student at the University of Zaragoza in Spain, highlights the visit to Snøhetta as particularly interesting.
- The practical teaching provided invaluable real-world lessons. Visits to sustainable companies provided exposure to both challenges and solutions from organisations striving to integrate sustainability into their operations, says Ginés.
The students also received visits from Equinor and IKEA, who talked about the challenges and opportunities while working to achieve their sustainability goals. Morten Irgens' lecture on the opportunities within artificial intelligence in relation to a sustainable future was emphasised as a highlight by many, as well as the insights Kjersti Ruud Walaas shared about sustainable tourism in Oslo.
An entire day was also dedicated to the topic of diversity and inclusion, led by Martin Todd (Odisee), Lisa Cooper (Catalysts) and Sarah Abraham (The Norwegian Police University College).
- I gained insight into different cultural perspectives and their impact on business practices, which I believe will be invaluable in my future career.
Nisrine Kahya
Nisrine Kahya, a student at Odisee University of Applied Sciences in Belgium, says that BIP taught her about the importance of diversity and sustainability in global business contexts.
- I gained insight into different cultural perspectives and their impact on business practices, which I believe will be invaluable in my future career. Joining BIP has been a transformative experience that has broadened my understanding of global issues, improved my skills, and inspired me to strive for positive change in the world, says Kahya.
Next years' programmes
Students at Kristiania's International Business Communication (IBS2202) elective course can participate in upcoming BIP events, together with applicants from Odisee, Zaragoza and Griffith.
- In the spring of 2025, a new BIP will take place at the Odisee University of Applied Sciences in Brussels
- In the spring of 2026, the programme will be held at the University of Zaragoza in Spain.
The programme is equivalent to 3 credits and is a unique opportunity for students to broaden their horizons and gain valuable international experiences.
Would you like to study International Business Communication (IBS2202)?
Read more about IBS2202 here!