How can you respond as a witness to inappropriate behaviour without putting yourself in a difficult position? That question is at the heart of a new bystander training programme now available at UAntwerp. The initiative is timely, as Lien Smets, training officer at HR (DP&O), explains why the training is more important than ever.

This year's Antwerp 10 Miles was more popular than ever: all tickets sold out in less than two days. Thanks to a collaboration with Golazo, UAntwerpen secured 625 tickets exclusively for AUHA students — and these were snapped up even before the regular sale began.

Design is about more than shiny lifestyle products or aesthetic objects. Design is essentially a way of thinking, a methodical approach to solving complex problems. This is the point of departure for the new postgraduate programme Leading Change by Design, developed by UAntwerp in cooperation with a network of experts. It’s a transdisciplinary programme that prepares students and professionals to take an active role in social transitions through design.

More and more students are facing financial difficulties. That’s why our university launched the ‘Students in Need’ initiative – to ensure that financial worries never become a barrier to earning a degree. Every year, the project provides a much-needed financial boost to numerous students. “For me, it made a world of difference,” says master’s student Rafal Mahan.

The Diversity & Inclusion Team organised focus groups to explore the experiences of colleagues with disabilities. Those with invisible disabilities, such as autism, ADHD, or chronic illnesses, often hesitate to speak up, fearing misunderstanding or lack of change. The discussions highlighted a strong need for role models, a safe environment, and clear information about available support. Flexibility in work arrangements and practical adjustments were also seen as essential. Two colleagues share their experiences here.

A faculty thrives on collaboration, but how do you ensure that colleagues truly feel heard? Tom Breugelmans, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Engineering (FTI), found inspiration on the radio: a daily check-in as a way to connect. Meeting every morning wasn’t feasible, but the idea stuck. The result? Voluntary one-on-one coffee moments between the dean and the FTI ZAP members, arranged by appointment. Now, years later, the initiative is a proven success.