Business students focused on social entrepreneurship, non-formal education, competence development, and project planning. Throughout the mobility, they explored how social initiatives can create positive change within communities.

Research and social entrepreneurship

During the first week, students participated in workshops and activities focused on:

• Non-formal education and lifelong learning
• Social entrepreneurship and social impact
• Competence development and self-reflection
• Research and analysis of overseas territories

Students conducted SWOT analyses and market research to better understand the opportunities and challenges faced by overseas territories and explored how social projects can respond to local community needs.

This experience helped students strengthen their analytical thinking, teamwork, communication, and project-planning skills.

Marketing and project development

During the second week, students applied their learning through practical communication and marketing activities.

They:

• Created social media content, videos, and promotional materials
• Designed marketing campaigns for social projects and social enterprises
• Developed presentation and pitching skills
• Tracked and reflected on their learning outcomes and competences

A highlight of the week was meeting students from EPB College who are preparing for a DiscoverEU Inclusion project. Following this exchange, Blackburn students worked on designing and planning their own DiscoverEU journeys, exploring opportunities for future international mobility.

Through these activities, students developed creativity, digital skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of project communication.

Water harvesting system

During the first week, students contributed to the completion of a water harvesting system at a community house.

Building on work started by a previous group, students:

● Installed and connected a water pump● Completed the rainwater harvesting system● Connected the system to an outdoor shower● Improved the site’s water efficiency and sustainability

The project aimed to reduce water consumption while promoting sustainable water management practices within the community.

Community garden project

In the second week, students collaborated with a local community garden and the foundation responsible for its management.

They:

• Analysed the site’s needs and infrastructure
• Met with community members maintaining the garden
• Developed a project proposal for future improvements
• Presented sustainable water management solutions
• Donated the water pump to support ongoing community initiatives

This project allowed students to see how engineering solutions can directly contribute to environmental sustainability and community development.

During their stay, they:

• Explored Aruba’s beaches and natural landscapes
• Hiked to the Natural Pool (Conchi)
• Visited caves and other natural landmarks
• Participated in a mosaic workshop
• Explored the street art and murals of San Nicolas
• Experienced local cuisine and island culture
• Built friendships and connections through intercultural exchange

These experiences complemented the students’ professional learning while helping them develop independence, adaptability, and intercultural understanding.

A MEANINGFUL INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE

This mobility project provided students with the opportunity to develop practical skills, increase their confidence, and gain valuable international experience. By working on real community projects and collaborating with local partners, participants were able to connect classroom learning with real-world challenges and opportunities.