4th day of Summer University started with the speech of Mr. Pavol Kossay, former advisor to Jan Figel, former Commissioner for Education, it contiuned with EDS workshops and it finished with a scenic tour along the Vah river.
On the beginning of his speech „Tolerance on the EU level” Mr. Kossay gave introduction on legal aspects of diversity in European legislation, including Lisbon treaty . He reminded that intercultural dialog should not be just for dialogue but for finding common ground among different people. Europe today is facing various influences of other cultures and Europeans should recognize it and be ready for more changes. At the same time deep and clear European identity is crucial to build an open society , capable to accept other cultures without fears . Europe should be open but should not lose its values . After the speech the floor for the questions was opened. Answering to the question how to implement tolerance in real life Mr. Kossay stressed that education and family plays essential role in building awareness on tolerance towards other cultures. Diversity and creativity are characteristics of European enterprises and Europeans should use this strength in all fields. Also discussion on different rules of some cultures within European legal system took place. Participant from Finland expressed his concern about different approach towards gender equality in Nordic Countries and Muslim societies. Mr. Kossay shared his view that guests in Europe are more than welcome but Europe should keep good traditions of its household.
The workshop for Event organising and fundraising was delivered by Secretary General, former Vice Chairwoman in charge of events Ildze Kanepaja, together with Chairman Bence Bauer, who has personally organised several events. They challenged the participants to consider more practical aspects of organising events and illustrated one by one the necessary steps to achieve a successful event – Programme – Speakers – Funding – Main organiser and organising team - Announcing – Materials - Registration. In the end, the secret to success is paying attention to smallest of details and anticipating all imaginable and unimaginable problems and situations, which might happen, and work hard to prevent them in advance. Even organisers should always remember that event participants are human beings, not robots, so their behaviour, personal preferences and tastes are difficult to anticipate and unimaginable situations may arise.
In the second part of the session fundraising was discussed. The speakers explained basics about fundraising, including different types of contracts, special requirements or conditions the sponsors might have, and practical arrangements. It is very important to carry out thoroughly the entire procedure from initial application, to necessary follow-up and reporting, in order to ensure a positive reputation, which enables future co-operation as well. Establishing a reliable partnership is always in the interest of both the sponsor and the organiser.
After the workshops, a boat trip along the Vah river took place, giving to the participants a unique opportunity to enjoy the wonderful scenery of Slovakia Tatra Mountains. Participants also visited Strečno castle learning a lot about Slovak history and the day finished in a truly friendly atmosphere with a barbecue on the bank of Vah river.
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