Impressed by: Lejla Čiva, PhD Student
Spending 5 days at the #EDIRE Summer School in Madrid was an incredible experience filled with eye-opening discussions, inspiring individuals, and valuable lessons. From exploring academic research to understanding inclusivity in sports and AI, each session offered a fresh perspective on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI)—and left us with plenty to think about!
## EDI in Academic Research – More Than Just a Concept
One of the standout sessions was on EDI principles in academic research, led by prof. Sara Clavero and prof. Caitriona Delaney. The energy and passion for the topic made this session particularly engaging. It wasn’t just about policies and frameworks—it was about how we, as researchers, can actively embed inclusivity into our methodologies, collaborations, and publications. A key takeaway? EDI should not be an afterthought in research—it should be a core principle from start to finish.
## A Different Approach to Research: Creative Thinking
The creative thinking workshop was a breath of fresh air! So often in academia, we get stuck in rigid structures, following the same formulas and methods. This session encouraged us to think outside the box, question traditional approaches, and explore innovative ways to conduct research. It was a great reminder that sometimes, stepping away from convention leads to the most exciting discoveries!
## Learning Through Sports
One of the most memorable moments of the summer school was the session on EDI in sports. We had the privilege of meeting María Delgado Nadal, a Paralympic swimmer, whose journey was truly inspiring. Her story highlighted that true inclusivity isn’t just about policies—it’s about real people, their challenges, and their incredible achievements. It was a powerful reminder that diversity in sports is about more than participation—it’s about creating real opportunities and support systems for athletes of all backgrounds.
## Ilunion Visit – EDI in Action
If there was one session that truly brought EDI to life, it was our visit to Ilunion – Fundación ONCE. Seeing how this organization creates real job opportunities for people with disabilities was both inspiring and practical. Ignacio Velo, one of the key speakers, delivered an unforgettable talk on how businesses can foster true inclusivity—not just as a checkbox but as a meaningful practice. It was one of the most impactful moments of the entire program.
## AI for All – The Future of Inclusivity
The AI for All workshop was a fascinating dive into the intersection of technology and inclusivity. Led by experts including Jasminka Hasić-Telalović, the session tackled how artificial intelligence can be used to bridge accessibility gaps and promote fairness. It raised important discussions on ethical AI, bias in algorithms, and the role of tech in shaping a more inclusive future.
## Beyond the Sessions: Key Takeaways & Future Applications
Beyond the formal sessions, the summer school was an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded researchers from different backgrounds. Whether over coffee or in group discussions, some of the best insights came from these informal exchanges.
What stood out most? EDI is not just a theoretical concept—it’s something we can apply daily. Whether it’s designing more accessible academic materials, advocating for fair hiring practices, or simply being more mindful of different perspectives, the lessons from EDIRE have real-world applications that can make a difference.
## Looking Ahead – Why You Should Consider Attending
If you’re thinking about joining the next EDIRE Summer School, do it! It’s more than just another academic event—it’s an experience that challenges, inspires, and broadens your understanding of what true inclusivity means.
Looking back, this few days were about more than learning—it was about gaining new perspectives, building connections, and leaving with the motivation to integrate EDI into everything we do. And isn’t that what education should be all about? 😊
