Erasmus+ project ‘EqualEdu’ meeting in Rome
On 21–22 April 2026, Sapienza University in Rome hosted a partner meeting of the Erasmus+ project ‘Inclusion of Content on Affective-Sexual and Gender Diversity in Health Sciences University Environments’ (EqualEdu).
The meeting was attended by teachers and students from the Department of Rehabilitation at Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution. The project is implemented within the UNINOVIS Alliance in collaboration with international partners, including the University of Malaga (Spain), La Sapienza University (Italy), Polytechnic Institute of Lisbon (Portugal), University of Malta (Malta), and Charles University (Czechia).
The two-day programme focused on gender identity, inclusive healthcare, and the integration of diversity-related topics into health sciences education. Activities included lectures, discussions, and interactive workshops designed to engage both students and academic staff.
On the first day, sessions addressed LGBTIQ+ health rights, existing gaps in healthcare systems, and approaches to improving access to care for transgender and intersex individuals. Experts from clinical and academic fields shared insights into patient-centred and inclusive practices.
The programme also included a guided visit to the Museum of History of Medicine at Sapienza University. This activity provided participants with an opportunity to explore the historical development of medical science in a broader social and cultural context.
The second day focused on education and student engagement. Participants took part in interactive workshops and participatory activities that explored inclusion, identity, and real-life educational situations. A lecture on gender-affirming surgery presented medical, ethical, and identity-related perspectives relevant to contemporary healthcare practice.
In addition to the official programme, representatives from Kauno kolegija visited clinical settings at Sapienza University. These included an orthopaedics clinic, a motion analysis laboratory, and a physiotherapy unit. The visit provided insights into clinical practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. Participants also had the opportunity to meet leading researchers whose work and strong academic standing contribute significantly to the development of the field.
Participation in the project strengthened both professional and intercultural competencies. Students and lecturers gained a deeper understanding of the importance of inclusive, respectful, and patient-centred care in healthcare practice.
International initiatives such as the ‘EqualEdu’ project contribute to the development of more inclusive healthcare education and support collaboration between higher education institutions across Europe. The next and final project meeting will take place in Kaunas, Lithuania, in June 2026.
