Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) has successfully hosted the in-person phase of the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) Enhancing Sustainable Communication, Professional Competences and AI, held from 16–20 March 2026. The initiative, coordinated by UPV within the ENHANCE Alliance, brings together forty-five students from five European universities for a shared experience of learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
The online preparation phase of the course began in February, setting the foundation for the intensive week in Valencia, where students from UPV, Warsaw University of Technology, Technische Universität Berlin, as well as our ENHANCE associated partners Lviv Polytechnic National University, and Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute met in person for the first time.
The programme focuses on equipping participants with the skills to communicate technical and scientific information effectively and sustainably, while exploring the fundamentals of artificial intelligence (AI), intercultural communication, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Teaching takes place in both English and Spanish, reflecting the international and multilingual character of the collaboration.
Content is structured around the five Ps of sustainable development — People, Planet, Prosperity, Partnership, and Peace — and dedicated workshops deepen participants' competences in intercultural communication and the use of AI tools in academic and professional contexts.
During the on-site week, students took part in workshops, collaborative group projects, and visits to organisations driving innovation and sustainability in the region. Highlights included visits to AITEX in Alcoy, a leading centre for textile research and innovation, and Juan Motilla S.L. in Gandía, a mandarin packaging company committed to sustainable practices. Outside the classroom, participants immersed themselves in the cultural life of Valencia, exploring the City of Arts and Sciences and the city's historic landmarks.
A central element of the programme is teamwork in international, multicultural groups — giving participants hands-on experience in real intercultural settings and strengthening both their communicative and professional competences. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate worth 3 ECTS credits, recognising their achievement in this international learning context.
This first edition marks an important milestone for ENHANCE in promoting sustainability-oriented education and international collaboration among technical universities. Two further editions of the BIP are already planned, continuing the Alliance's mission to connect students, build professional competences, and advance the role of AI in supporting a sustainable and inclusive future.
