International students and alumni of Czech universities and higher-education institutions from across the country gathered in Olomouc. Palacký University Olomouc hosted the International Student and Alumni Meetup (ISAMOL) for the first time—an event regularly organized by the Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (Dům zahraniční spolupráce, DZS) with the aim of sharing experiences and building new friendships.
Fort Science became a venue where people could meet and network. The guests were welcomed by representatives of the university leadership - Rector Michael Kohajda and Vice-Rector for International Relations Ivona Barešová.
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The Rector emphasised that internationalisation is among the university’s top priorities. It communicates and cooperates with partners all around the world and takes part in a wide range of exchange programmes. He also highlighted the importance of Palacký University’s membership in the Aurora network of European universities. “Palacký University currently educates more than four thousand international students from nearly one hundred countries, reflecting both the trust they place in us and the truly global character of our academic community. Through initiatives supported by the Aurora alliance, we continue to strengthen cutting-edge international research,” said Michael Kohajda. According to Vice-Rector Ivona Barešová, the university is also building the necessary support structures for international students so that they feel part of the local academic community: “At Palacký University, we strive not only to provide top-quality education and research, but also to create a truly supportive and welcoming environment for everyone who chooses our university as part of their academic journey,” the Vice-Rector stated.
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A rich programme was prepared for more than 150 international students and alumni who arrived in Olomouc, including a tour of the university’s Science and Technology Park and career workshops. “We also organised a fair of universities and regional organisations, during which participants met partners who play a key role in the integration of international students and alumni. Exhibitors included, for instance, the Archdiocesan Charity, the Integration Centre for Foreigners, the Expat Centres in Brno and Ostrava, and the Olomouc Region Innovation Centre, as well as Charles University, Masaryk University, the University of Ostrava, Czech Technical University in Prague, and the Technical University of Liberec,” said Alena Vyskočilová from the Palacký University Welcome Office, which prepared the Olomouc meetup in cooperation with DZS.
Entertainment was not missing either. Students could take advantage of the Palacký University Press offer and make their own university notebook, play language games, take a souvenir photo in a special photo booth, and more.
“The evening culminated in a concert by the popular Czech–Bosnian band No Barriers, which contributed to the friendly and relaxed atmosphere that accompanied the entire event. The meetup was rated very positively by participants and offered not only an opportunity to make new contacts and share experiences, but also inspiration for academic, professional, and cultural development,” Alena Vyskočilová added. In her view, ISAMOL 2025 confirmed that Olomouc is an ideal place for bringing together students and alumni from around the world, and it created space to connect the academic sphere with regional initiatives, business, and cultural life.
