Mental health position paper
CUSU finalized a comprehensive position paper on student wellbeing in Circle U. (pdf), addressing gaps in support services across the alliance. Drawing from best practices in Pisa, Oslo, Paris and others, the paper advocates for more equal access to psychological services, improved visibility of resources, and stronger peer-to-peer support systems.
AI in education: Meeting the Knowledge Hub
Given Pisa’s role as the host of the AI Knowledge Hub, CUSU met with the academic chair to discuss student perspectives on AI in higher education. Discussions focused on current challenges in the hub as well as ensuring ethical, inclusive AI education and student involvement in shaping digital learning policies—connecting with CUSU’s recently finalized AI position paper.
Digging in societal engagement
CUSU met with coordinators of a Circle U. work package focused on societal engagement. Discussions covered upcoming initiatives like the June Bootcamp, the Changemaker Programme, and student-led projects addressing local issues—from sustainability and social innovation to corruption and entrepreneurship. CUSU welcomed WP5’s focus on supporting student initiatives, especially those rooted in local contexts but scalable across the alliance.
New political note: Reallocation of European funds
As part of our preparations to the Pisa General Assembly, we developed a political note (pdf) on the evolving European Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and its impact on students and universities across Europe. The aim is to critically assess funding priorities and advocate for stronger investment in student mobility, wellbeing, and digital infrastructure.
Beyond policy work and stakeholder meetings, the seminar also focused on updating CUSU’s working practices and amplifying student engagement. Student representatives drafted a Code of Conduct and finalized a new Design Manual. We also had a chance to meet Pisa’s student ambassadors and a team from the local student radio. During the seminar, we also produced new content to highlight our positions within the alliance, which will be shared on our Instagram in the coming months.
