Dr. Gabriela Bitai and Anna Rüscher in Ireland

As part of the BIP Trauma-informed Teaching, we had the opportunity to travel to the University of Limerick in Ireland from June 8 to 12, 2026. Ten motivated students joined us. It was a fantastic week, and it was an absolute joy to share this experience as a group.

Each of us found their own way to Limerick. Some, for example, combined their trip with a stay in Dublin. From there, it’s very easy to take a direct bus to the Limerick campus. It’s also possible to travel via Shannon Airport, although there are no direct flights from northern Germany.

Guest speakers impressed us with their expertise and provided valuable insights into the topic of trauma-informed teaching. Working together with around 40 students from various European countries, we developed inspiring concepts and gained useful knowledge that we will now incorporate into our work at Europa-Universität Flensburg.

In addition to organizing the program content, the Irish team put together a varied cultural program for us: from a campus tour and an artistic performance in Gaelic, to a hurling session, a guided tour of Limerick, and excursions to the impressive Cliffs of Moher and the medieval Bunratty Castle. 

Of course, culinary delights were also on the agenda: we enjoyed some excellent meals together and enjoyed a Guinness or two.