The U of M International Centre marked International Education Week (IEW) with a five-day series of events held from Nov. 17 to 21. The annual observance is part of a global initiative to recognize the role of international education and the contributions of international students.
Fanny Levy, International Centre executive director, spoke about the event. “International Education Week is an annual opportunity for our team and partners to celebrate and highlight the contributions of international students and the value of global engagement across our campuses and abroad.”
Levy said this year’s celebration offered several opportunities to participants. “Students had opportunities to build intercultural skills, explore global mobility opportunities […] and funding to access those experiences, meet peers from around the world and receive direct support from international student advisors.”
The planning of the week involved collaboration across multiple groups on campus. Levy said, “We consulted with student groups, campus partners and International Centre staff to identify themes that resonate with our current students.”
Levy said this year’s IEW centred “on community building, cross-cultural learning and student success.” Throughout the five days, activities were organized to help students engage with campus resources and programs.
“Our programming included cultural showcases, student-led sessions, academic and immigration support workshops, and partner-led activities from faculties, Student Affairs and student groups,” she added.
According to Levy, the programming also featured information for students “to learn about study-abroad pathways and global partnerships, highlighting both inbound and outbound mobility.”
Levy expressed that IEW is significant for students as “[IEW] creates shared spaces where students can learn with and from each other […] Through food, conversation or collaborative workshops, we help build mutual understanding and reduce social barriers that can sometimes arise.” However, for Levy, “that spirit of engagement is what defines IEW for [her].”
She added, “For many, it was also a chance to showcase their identity and culture in a supportive environment.”
Levy noted the planning and coordination of IEW came with challenges, particularly given the range of activities across multiple units. She said, “Our team addressed [these] through communication, early planning and leaning on our campus partners’ expertise. We’re fortunate to have a committed group of staff and many student volunteers who adapt quickly and ensure students have a meaningful experience.”
Levy mentioned the International Centre intends to “continue expanding student leadership [and ensure] programming reflects their voices and priorities.” She added, “We want [IEW] to keep growing as an annual celebration that brings our entire community together and reinforces [U of M’s] commitment to global engagement.”
The International Centre serves as U of M’s main pillar of global engagement, supporting students and faculty interested in international opportunities or global collaboration.
The office is located in Room 541 of UMSU University Centre. For updates on upcoming events, follow
@um.international.
