International PhD Masterclass in Tartu: A Collaborative Learning Experience Across CEE and the MENA Region
On 26–28 November 2024, SGH PhD students took part in the international masterclass “Building Bridges: Central and Eastern Europe Perspectives on the Middle East and North Africa Region”, hosted by the University of Tartu. The workshop brought together doctoral candidates from Estonia, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Poland. This mix of backgrounds created an engaging and friendly working atmosphere. The programme began with a short introduction to Estonia, which added a warm cultural touch to the visit.
The SGH delegation was coordinated by Professor Katarzyna Górak-Sosnowska, while the University of Tartu team – especially Dr. Elo Süld and Dr. Anastasia Sinitsyna – offered excellent academic guidance and hospitality. The masterclass was organised within a project Academic Partnership for the Study of the Middle East and North Africa in Central and Eastern Europe (CEEMEA) funded by NAWA Startegic Partnerships.
The workshop combined lectures, case study development, and small-group discussions. One of its central tasks was preparing analytical notes based on the case studies. This format encouraged participants to turn their ideas into clear, policy-oriented arguments. Inspired by music masterclasses, the programme invited us to bring our own knowledge and work together on new topics. In the original model, musicians would prepare a joint concert; in our case, we developed three case studies on the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of the Middle East.
As a member of the Economy and Business team, I worked on a case exploring the developing Poland–Oman space partnership within Oman Vision 2040. Working with colleagues from different fields broadened the discussion and enriched our final note. We were encouraged to use AI tools throughout the workshop, and they helped us think more creatively and develop our analyses.
According to Professor Górak-Sosnowska, “the trip was an opportunity to get to know our PhD students better. Their enthusiasm and readiness to take on new challenges inspired several plans for co-authored articles.” Informal moments such as shared meals, evening conversations and the Estonian sauna tradition helped us connect and exchange views in a relaxed setting.
Participants expressed interest in joining future editions, valuing both the supportive atmosphere and the chance to collaborate. The visit also strengthened SGH’s links within international academic networks and contributed to preparations for the 2026 PhD conferences in Tartu and Vilnius.
Masterclasses like this one help young researchers grow, build academic networks, and encourage the exchange of ideas and intellectual dialogue across borders.
