STSM Testimonials: Reimagining Academic Openness in Times of Crisis: My STSM Experience at MESOPOLHIS, Aix-Marseille Université

My name is Iryna Sikorska, and I am a scholar from Ukraine whose academic interests focus on European education policies, the internationalization of higher education, and the Europeanization processes in the countries of the Eastern Partnership. In September 2025, I had the privilege of conducting a Short-Term Scientific Mission within the COST Open Action CA22121, hosted by MESOPOLHIS – the Centre Méditerranéen de Sociologie, de Science Politique et d’Histoire at Aix-Marseille Université.  

By invitation and under the mentorship of Professor Dorota Dakowska (Sciences Po Aix), I explored the topic Reimagining academic openness as a strategic and ethical instrument of resilience and democracy building. 

During my stay in Aix-en-Provence, I immersed myself in the rich interdisciplinary environment of Sciences Po Aix. I presented my research on academic openness in times of geopolitical pressure, engaged in discussions with local colleagues, and received invaluable feedback and insights that helped me refine my research perspectives. Working with the library and digital resources of MESOPOLHIS allowed me to strengthen my conceptual framework and methodological design in regards of positioning academic openness not merely as a value, but as a strategic tool in times of crisis. I hope my conversations with local and international students extended their knowledge about the ongoing war against Ukraine and a notable resilience of its academic community. 

Beyond academic work, I was able to explore the culture of Aix-en-Provence: the Musée Granet with marvelous collection of Paul Cezanne’s works, art galleries, and numerous exhibitions were was deeply enriching. The personal encounters were incredibly meaningful as well: meeting new people, conversations, shared meals shaped my reflections on what openness truly means in practice, and how it nurtures understanding, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue. 

This STSM has laid a strong foundation for future collaboration with MESOPOLHIS. I am deeply grateful to Professor Alessia Lefébure, Directrice of Sciences Po Aix, for our engaging conversation on the global challenges facing the academic sector. Together with Taos Boudine, Head of the International Relations Office, we outlined a plan to enhance student and staff exchanges between our institutions. With Professor Dorota Dakowska, we intend to co-author publications and initiate joint projects. I believe these collaborations will contribute to the objectives of the OPEN COST Action and strengthen universities’ commitment to openness, global cooperation, and resilience in times of crisis.