Internationalisation at Home: Intercultural Engagement of Students in Extracurricular Activities; MED2IaH Case Study

Abstract

This study explores the role of extracurricular activities in enhancing students’ intercultural abilities, using the MED2IaA Erasmus+ CBHE project as a case study. Conducted between 2020 and 2023 across 12 higher education institutions in non-eu Southern Mediterranean countries, the project aimed to integrate international and intercultural aspects into local education. The concept of ‘Internationalisation at Home’ (IaH) is highlighted, emphasizing the inclusion of global learning opportunities within the curriculum and campus life for all students. The study finds that specific extracurricular activities, such as digital storytelling, intercultural events, and the friends Tea-Houses, significantly contribute to IaH by fostering intercultural engagement and understanding. The research concludes that these initiatives effectively promote intercultural competencies, enhance communication and teamwork skills, and provide valuable insights into managing cultural collaborations, thereby supporting the internationalisation
goals of higher education institutions.