Nikoleta Vargova: My experience of the European Inclusive Communities Challenge
Student Blog
By Nikoleta Vargova, May 2025
Imagine exploring cutting-edge technology in vibrant European cities, whilst helping to improve your local community. This was the reality of the European Inclusive Communities Challenge (EICC), which I was fortunate to be part of, with fellow Nottingham Trent University students. Our research groups tackled vital topics such as Artificial Intelligence, green projects, Net Zero initiatives, and youth engagement.
This article is the introductory article in a mini-series inspired by my recent experience on the EICC with NTU Global. This article provides a brief overview of that trip.
What is the EICC?
The European Inclusive Communities Challenge (EICC) is a unique opportunity for selected Nottingham Trent University (NTU) students, with priority given to those from the Ashfield, Mansfield, and Bolsover regions. This collaborative initiative sends students to European cities to conduct research for their local councils, aiming to contribute to the improvement of these regions. Forty NTU students participated in the recent trip, beginning in Lille, (France), before branching out to explore the diverse research topics. My group of ten students focused on the potential of AI to enhance youth engagement, a topic we investigated further in Karlsruhe and Heidelberg (Germany).
An overview of my experience
During the trip, I delved into the fast-developing world of artificial intelligence in the charming streets of Lille, the historical beauty of Heidelberg, and the innovative hubs of Karlsruhe – all while contributing to shaping a brighter future for my own community. This was the exciting reality for our group of ten Nottingham Trent University students who recently embarked on the European Inclusive Communities Challenge (EICC), an initiative I was fortunate to be a part of.
Nikoleta (first on the right) with her teammates during a visit to Springer Nature Publisher in Heidelberg
What makes the challenge a challenge?
The idea of travelling through Europe with unfamiliar faces initially felt like a significant challenge, however, it unexpectedly became one of the most rewarding aspects of the EICC. The feelings of uncertainty washed away when I quickly created new connections with nine other students from diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines. Our shared research travel experiences ensured unique memories, laughter-filled conversations, and an overall inspiring atmosphere.
A key aspect of the EICC involved active 'research days,' where we immersed ourselves in the world of AI to develop practical ideas for our local councils. Our task was to translate the knowledge gained from talks, exhibitions, and explorations into realistic recommendations for the council. The central question guiding our work was: How can Nottinghamshire's local government effectively utilise the insights generated by students? While this translation process could be a difficult task, our group effectively synthesised our learning to create persuasive ideas, two clear posters, and two compelling pitches.
It's truly inspiring to see local councils championing this unique opportunity for university students to actively shape a brighter future for their communities. The EICC fosters a valuable exchange: students gain the rewarding experience of travel, new connections, and a unique educational journey, while the councils benefit from fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and insights gleaned from international contexts through the viewpoints of students.
Despite having no prior experience with Artificial Intelligence, I expected it to be a difficult research area. However, the trip introduced me to AI through discussions, learning activities, and critical thinking exercises. As a result, my understanding and opinion on AI significantly strengthened, and I gained valuable insight into its current and future applications. Exploring this present day topic was a rewarding aspect of the EICC.
In conclusion
After completing my Foundation Degree at Birmingham City University, I transferred to Nottingham Trent University to complete my bachelor’s in Architecture. This transfer has been extremely rewarding and beneficial to my personal, academic and career development. The European Inclusive Communities Challenge has further enhanced these gains. It is a truly unique experience with valuable benefits. I am grateful to have participated for the second year, and I am eager to apply again next year!
Nikoleta (fourth from the left) with her teammates at the Showcase Event
NTU Global European Cities Challenge
Return to the main showcase page or read more student testimonials about this initiative.