Mobility programmes, such as study abroad, internships, and cultural exchanges, provide excellent opportunities for personal and professional development. They allow participants to immerse themselves in a different culture, gain new perspectives, and learn new skills. However, if not designed with inclusivity in mind, these programmes may inadvertently exclude certain groups, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. In this article, we will discuss the significance of inclusivity in mobility programmes and offer strategies for making these programmes accessible and beneficial to all.

Inclusivity in mobility programs is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures that all participants have equal access to the benefits of these programs, regardless of their background. Second, it promotes diversity and encourages the exchange of different perspectives and ideas. Finally, it helps to break down stereotypes and biases by exposing participants to different cultures and ways of life.

To ensure that mobility opportunities are accessible to all UPM students, various strategies have been implemented such as providing some financial assistance to students, dispersing programs with scholarships to students, and offering comprehensive information through various channels and consultation sessions. Beginning in 2023, i-PUTRA have also revised their financial rate and requirements as a method to encourage more UPMs to pursue their outbound mobility program overseas. Besides that, some of the universities UPM collaborated with under the ERASMUS+ program have started to include additional criteria which will provide some additional funds to students from a disadvantaged background who are joining the ERASMUS+ Program.

We hope that via these efforts, we can ensure that these programmes are accessible and valuable to all. Hopefully, through this program we can promote diversity and stimulate the exchange of different perspectives and ideas by establishing an inclusive culture inside these programmes, leading to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Date of Input: 28/02/2023 | Updated: 28/02/2023 | sh_najiyah