The EUGLOH network has launched the series “EUGLOH [you·glow]: Faces behind the Alliance,” which features inspiring people from the EUGLOH community.
In their most recent interview, they featured António Coelho (DEI), who has been actively involved in EUGLOH since its early stages. António’s work focuses on pedagogical innovation, transversal skills, and supporting initiatives that enhance employability and lifelong learning. Through his engagement with EUGLOH, António has contributed to the design and delivery of blended intensive courses, research conferences, and other transformative initiatives that bring together students, teachers, and staff across Europe.
How has being part of EUGLOH influenced your personal and/or professional growth?
Being part of EUGLOH has been a tremendous challenge and opportunity. The Alliance has encouraged me to focus on pedagogical innovation, expanding my understanding of career services, lifelong learning, and the structures that support student employability. It has also provided an international perspective, allowing me to learn how different universities approach teaching, learning, and professional development—and to integrate the best practices from across the alliance. Personally and professionally, it has been inspiring to participate in a project that aims to shape the future of higher education in Europe.
What has been your favourite experience or moment within EUGLOH so far?
My favourite experiences have been the Blended Intensive Courses. These courses bring students, staff, and professors together to solve challenges collaboratively in just one week. It is incredible to witness the creativity and engagement of participants, and the results are often surprising and highly impactful. Another highlight has been co-creating courses, such as “Putting the students first: Designing the Classroom of the Future,” where diverse participants—professors, staff, and students—work together to design innovative learning experiences that prioritise student well-being and inclusivity. These experiences provide ideas and insights to the community that I can apply directly in my own courses, making them professionally rewarding.
What is your favourite EUGLOH initiative?
I value all initiatives that bring together students, professors, and staff to foster collaboration and learning. This includes blended courses, student research conferences, and the Annual Summit. For example, in 2024, the Annual Summit featured two Nobel Prize winners as keynote speakers, moderated by students themselves—an impressive demonstration of student engagement and excellence. These initiatives not only enhance knowledge but also promote European values, cultural exchange, and professional competencies.
From your perspective, why is EUGLOH important?
EUGLOH equips students and professionals with both technical and transversal skills, including multi-disciplinarity and multicultural understanding. By working together across countries, participants gain diverse perspectives, fostering their growth as European citizens capable of tackling global challenges. Individual universities alone may lack the scale or diversity to compete internationally, but through EUGLOH, we leverage collective strengths and collaboration. This diversity and unity make Europe a stronger, more competitive space in higher education and research, while preparing participants to be agents of positive change.