This project aims to promote international and intercultural cooperation between students from different countries. The subjects offered by the project to the students were focused on managerial skills, career and personal development. The project involved 14 Czech and 25 Dutch students, who were divided into 7 teams under the guidance of three lecturers: Terezie Krestová, Katerina Kashi and Marivi Martínez Brocca.

At the first meeting, the students got acquainted with the goals of the project and were then divided into micro-teams in which they had the task of designing the motto and logo of their team. The students grappled with this task and at the end of the meeting presented their outputs, which were original and creative. This task was an opportunity for the students not only to get acquainted but also to engage in teamwork, which is crucial for success in international and intercultural environments.

The entire COIL focused on selecting one of five topics that covered current issues related to the job market, competencies, cultural stereotypes, adaptability in career and intercultural communication. The students chose one of the following topics, which they then processed into a video, presentation or poster:

• Labor Market in 20 Years: Future Challenges and Opportunities
• Which Competencies and Skills Are Asked by Employers: Differences and Similarities Between the Netherlands and the Czech Republic
• Cultural Stereotyping About Different Communities in Both Countries
• Adaptability and Resilience in an International Career
• Cross-Cultural Communication for Career and Leadership Success

The aim of the project was not only to deepen intercultural awareness, but also to provide students with an opportunity to reflect and improve their personal skills on an individual and group level. Furthermore, the project supported the development of skills in multimedia production, storytelling, design and presentation in a cross-cultural context between the Czech Republic and the Netherlands. In addition, he focused on developing cooperation between students from different countries through virtual online communication.

“The COIL project between VŠB-TUO and Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences is a great example of how students from different countries can work together on topical topics and gain valuable experience that will prepare them for successful careers in an international environment,” says Terezie Krestová, one of the lecturers. This cooperation not only deepens intercultural awareness, but also supports the development of skills that are currently highly valued in the labour market. “If the project continues in the following years, we can expect its increasing influence on the formation of globally oriented and culturally competent students,” concludes the lecturer.

The project lasted from February to March 2025.