Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Programme on “Identity and Diversity in Education”

The Department of Social Work, in collaboration with the Centre for Development Studies and Initiatives (CDSI) organized a Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program on “Identity and Diversity in Education” on 30 October 2025, in partnership with Oslo Metropolitan University, Norway. The initiative aimed to promote intercultural learning and critical reflection on identity, diversity, and inclusion in educational contexts.
A total of 43 students and 4 faculty members participated, including 16 MSW students from ADBU and 27 students from OsloMet. The program began with a welcome address by Ms Bushra Fatima Syed (OsloMet), followed by an insightful session by Dr Bibharani Swargiary, Head, Department of Social Work, on children’s identity and play in Anganwadi Centres under the ICDS framework. A pedagogical session on traditional play was jointly facilitated by Dr Cecilie Thun and Ms Bushra Fatima Syed. Interactive Padlet activities and mixed-group discussions enabled students from both universities to share childhood memories and collaboratively create stories, fostering meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.
The COIL program enriched participants’ understanding of identity, diversity, and inclusive education while strengthening intercultural competence, empathy, and collaborative learning. The initiative reaffirmed ADBU’s commitment to global engagement and experiential learning through innovative digital partnerships.