The past year has been an exciting journey for UNIOS students involved in COLOURS, filled with learning opportunities, creative initiatives, and remarkable achievements. Their dedication and enthusiasm have contributed to the success of numerous events and collaborations, showcasing their skills and commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The First COLOURS Annual Conference
One of the most significant milestones for the COLOURS Alliance was the successful organization of The First COLOURS Annual Conference. This landmark event not only showcased the organization’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion but also highlighted the collaborative efforts of students from the University of J.J.Strossmayera (UNIOS) who played a significant role in planning, coordinating, and executing this large-scale conference.
Students, recognizing the value of such the COLOURS initiative, stepped up to the challenge. They were involved in every aspect of the conference organization, from logistics to the content of discussions. Their dedication was evident in the meticulous planning that preceded the event. The students arranged for venues, managed schedules, and coordinated with speakers and participants, showcasing their ability to handle the complexities of a large-scale event. This hands-on experience allowed students to develop invaluable skills in event management, public speaking, and teamwork, further enriching their educational journey. Looking back, the conference was not just a significant milestone for the organization but also a testament to the power of youth involvement in meaningful initiatives.
CoLab: Greening the Cities
Sustainability was at the heart of CoLab: Greening the Cities, an initiative where students not only participated but also played a leading role in organizing activities. Through workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on projects, they explored innovative ways to make urban spaces greener, demonstrating their commitment to environmental consciousness and sustainable urban development.
This project was very valuable for students who wanted to acquire valuable insights from top experts in urban ecology and sustainable infrastructure, connect with professionals from diverse sectors committed to advancing sustainable development, participate in hands-on workshops that equip them with tools for practical implementation and to collaborate on projects aimed at tackling both local and global environmental issues that are important for students and future engagement in global problems.
Students played a central role throughout the “Greening the Cities” conference, actively engaging in a variety of hands-on and thought-provoking activities. They attended micro-lectures by experts on green infrastructure, gaining insights into Osijek’s urban ecosystem, the ecological value of urban trees, and innovative solutions for improving air quality through sustainable development.
Through panel discussions and collaborative brainstorming, students reflected on current urban challenges, exchanged ideas with peers and professionals, and developed creative concepts for future projects. A homemade hydroponics workshop provided practical experience in growing plants without soil, inspiring students to explore green solutions even in limited urban spaces.
A guided field study through Osijek’s parks and green roofs gave students direct exposure to successful local initiatives, offering ideas they could adapt to their own communities. In follow-up panel sessions, they transformed theory into actionable project proposals, practicing their skills in teamwork, presentation, and sustainability planning.
The CoLab was concluded with a dynamic Knowledge Café, where students participated in open dialogue on strengthening community engagement and partnerships, while sharpening their communication and networking skills—all with the shared goal of shaping greener, more sustainable urban environments.
Dinner Lectures & COLOURS Pub Quiz
Beyond technical and sustainability-focused activities, UNIOS students embraced the spirit of networking and knowledge-sharing by taking part in the Dinner Lectures. They took this event to the next level by organizing a COLOURS-themed Pub Quiz, making learning fun and interactive while strengthening their connections within the COLOURS community.
Representing COLOURS at MUZZA
At MUZZA, an interactive science weekend, UNIOS students took on the role of COLOURS ambassadors. They engaged with visitors, presented COLOURS’ initiatives, and inspired young minds to explore interdisciplinary collaboration. Their presence strengthened COLOURS’ visibility and impact within the broader scientific and creative communities.
Students helped with the organization of events and quizzes, where elementary school children could learn about the COLOURS Alliance and the importance of international cooperation. Students were very engaged in knowledge about the organization and inspired by the ideas and opportunities the organisation offers because it is very important to teach young children about beauty of different cultures, and to encourage them to be proactive, interested in cooperation and equality.
Hackathon in Latvia – Combat Robotics
Pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation, a team of UNIOS students represented COLOURS at the Hackathon in Latvia: Combat Robotics. This event challenged them to apply their technical expertise and teamwork to develop cutting-edge robotic solutions, competing against international peers and gaining valuable hands-on experience. Students could gain experience in robotics, from design to real time problem solving, practice teamwork, time management, and innovation a under pressure that would we very important for future global problems.
Also, students had an exposure to international collaboration and peer learning, and opportunity to test and improve programming, electronics, and engineering skills in hands-on setting, also this gives students an inspiration and motivation to pursue further projects in technology and robotics.
UNIOS students weren’t left empty handed as they won the 2nd place in Mini Sumo PRO category.
What more to expect?
ESA25 in Strasbourg
This year in May one of UNIOS students will represent us in European Student Assembly (ESA) in Strasbourg. ESA 2025 participants will collaboratively develop a set of policy recommendations across eight key debate topics, and our student from Faculty of Agrobiotechical Sciences, Lidija Kuštro will participate in Panel 1 – Mentally (un)stable where she will debate on how the EU can help young people manage mental health issues caused by overstimulation. Lidija is eager to embrace new challenges and expand her knowledge. She sees ESA25 as a valuable opportunity to gain insights, develop new skills, and contribute meaningfully to discussions on Europe’s future.
Summer school Ferrara
The excitement around this year’s Summer School in Ferrara has been incredible! Our dedicated students from UNIOS are eager to explore the environmental impact of human activities and the realities of climate change.
A total of 8 outstanding students will represent UNIOS, joining forces with international participants, fellow learners, and young changemakers to gain hands-on experience, expand their knowledge, and collaborate with leading experts.
Summer school Paderborn
During July our students will attend Summer school in Paderborn and will have the opportunity to learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI), social media, sustainability, and education.
After the Summer school, our Student Chief Ambassador will have the opportunity to be a part of the traditional Celebratory Opening of the Libori Festival.
A Year of Growth and Achievement
Through these diverse experiences, UNIOS students have exemplified the core values of COLOURS: collaboration, creativity, and impact. Their dedication to learning, innovation, and teamwork has not only benefited them individually but has also strengthened the COLOURS network as a whole.
We look forward to another year of exciting projects, ground-breaking ideas, and inspiring success stories from our UNIOS students!
