At the meeting in Kouvola, after reviewing current news at the different campuses, the upcoming summer school in July 2024 was finally discussed and any remaining questions were clarified. This year it will be organised by The Hague University. This was followed by the results of the working groups. One group had thought about the realignment of IBSEN’s vision and mission. Another group reported on a series of seminars on entrepreneurship (starting winter semester 2024), whereby the member universities can register their lecturers and students. This would be a first example of a certificate of the IBSEN network. As in every meeting, funding possibilities were also discussed, and deadlines agreed.

Content-related inputs from the host university included a keynote speech on the efforts in the field of entrepreneurship, the use of a business game simulation in teaching and a presentation of the student magazine (Insider) of the departments. A workshop and some impulses on the topic of AI from a company and a member of the university rounded off the meeting.

The exchange in the unofficial formats such as the joint sauna visit after the first meeting day consolidated the fruitful discussions, which led to many great ideas and initiated projects

As always, the trip was worthwhile, and many to-dos were taken back with us. On behalf of IBSEN, I would like to thank the XAMK organisers, especially Sara, Mia, Hugh and Ari. With your great organisation we had very nice days in Kouvola with many memorable experiences. The preparations for the next meeting in Canada have already begun…

Prof. Dr. Riza Öztürk
Dean Bielefeld School of Business

Text: Riza Öztürk (edited Hugh Clack)
Photos: Hugh Clack