European Association of International Education’s (EAIE) annual conference in 2023 in Rotterdam gathered a record-breaking attendance of over 6000 participants. These participants are representatives of higher education institutes and other entities related to education, in for a week of meetings, sessions, workshops and exhibition. Unfortunately, however, the scale of the event is getting just too big, making chance encounters and spontaneous interactions with foreign partners quite difficult. On the other hand, the forced meetings of complete strangers may prove to be fruitful as well.

Insights from the Keynote

Another benefit of the conference is the keynote speakers. And this year, boy, did the speakers in the opening plenary talk directly to the teachers! The speakers Jahkini Bisselink and Hajar Yagkoubi, both advocates for sustainability, youth, and human rights, illustrated the reality of the Generation Z (born between 1997-2012, currently populating the university campuses all over the world). Their address prompted some serious contemplation in us, the teachers, representatives of an older generation. Here is the link of keynote speakers preview:

A World Defined by Crisis

For Gen Z, the world has been characterized by a relentless series of crises, ranging from climate change and pandemics to Putin’s war and energy crisis. Previous generations witnessed notable positive changes, but the constant exposure to global turmoil, amplified by the ever-present access to online updates, has left Gen Z feeling powerless, unable to help those inflicted. With no chance to recover between crisis and the feeling of helplessness can lead to despair and without hope for any kind of a future.

Values, Action and the Spirit of Anarchy

Bisselink & Yagkoubi emphasized the deeply ingrained values and action-oriented nature of Gen Z. They expect institutions and organization to uphold and act upon their claimed values and shy away from hierarchical structures. Transparency, equality and a positive impact on the societies and environment are the pillars they seek, leading them to challenge prevailing norms and systems. As seen in the actions of Greta Thonberg and university takeovers in Finland, among others.

The Rise of Fandom: A Force for Change

An increased need for communality, social networking and self-expression has led to the rise of collective action in the form of fandoms. Whether it is the BTS Army or other passionate fan communities, the unity within these groups can change the world. BTS’s unprecedented success with their song ‘Butter’ on the Billboard charts in 2021 acts as a testament to the influence these communities can have, effecting change on a global scale.

A Call for Collaboration and Understanding

Imagine what all these fandoms could do if they found a common goal and values they could all fight for. Bridging the generation gap and acknowledging and nurturing the spirit of Gen Z may well be our greatest contribution to creating a better world for generations to come.

It is indeed a privilege and an honor to be a part of their lives during their university years.

Kirjoittajat:

Marja Gröhn-Rissanen, International Coordinator, Senior Lecturer, marja-liisa.grohn-rissanen@savonia.fi

Virpi Oksanen, MScEcon, International Coordinator, Senior Lecturer, Virpi.oksanen@savonia.fi