From May 31st to June 2nd, at the premises of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Natalia Pietruszewska, a Master of Science & Technology student at École polytechnique, and Abu Bakar Ali, a Bachelor student at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), both represented the European University EuroteQ Engineering University. The Assembly of European Students brought together over a hundred students from European universities.
Initiated by the European Universities Community, the European Student Assembly gathers representatives from European universities each year, giving them the opportunity to express their perspectives on the major challenges facing Europe. The objective of this event is to bridge the gap between citizens and their institutional leaders (Municipalities, NGOs, etc.), and to strengthen Democracy in Europe as well.
Prior to the assembly, the participants were prepared through a process spread over several months. They collaborated with experts and underwent online training on legislative article writing, as well as learning to analyze political and legal contexts.
Civic engagement
Convinced of their european commitment, Natalia Pietruszewska, a Master student in “Smart Cities Economics and Climate Policy” at École Polytechnique, and Abu Bakar Ali, a Bachelor student in “General Engineering” at the Technical University of Denmark, participated in discussions and contributed to recommendations on various topics such as energy, inclusion, democracy, mental health, and digital transition. The event was an opportunity for the two students to demonstrate their civic engagement. The formulated recommendations were later presented to stakeholders in the presence of European Parliament Member Anne Sander.
The role of students for the future of Europe
Participating in the European Assembly in Strasbourg provided students with the opportunity to broaden their horizons, develop their knowledge of governance, and propose recommendations for today’s challenges.
“It was an honor to attend the Assembly with other European students. I think it is an excellent way to promote progress and rethink the implementation of policies and solutions that important for future generations. The change will be possible through the commitment of students who understand the values that unite us.” said Natalia Pietruszewska.
Natalia also expressed her desire to contribute to the energy transition in Europe as a future engineer, economist, and policymaker. She is convinced that her experiences within companies and non-governmental organizations will allow her to contribute to the building of a new Europe.
“This event was an amazing experience that allowed me to contribute to the discussion on sustainable cities and European autonomy, but it was also an invaluable platform for personal development, collaboration, and promoting a sense of unity among the youth.” affirmed the MScT student.
After a vote in the plenary session, 75 recommendations on 10 themes were selected. The students will soon participate in a series of events aimed at disseminating their proposals to political representatives, companies, NGOs, etc. These recommendations can then be taken into account in the development of future laws.
EuroTeQ Engineering University is thrilled with the involvement of its students in strategic initiatives that contribute to shaping the Europe of tomorrow. The network and all its partners encourage students to continue playing an active role in decisions that influence their future.
