OmniUM: A space for everyone
This academic year, Maastricht University (UM) is launching a new platform designed to foster open dialogue within its community: OmniUM. True to its name, OmniUM is for everyone at UM, providing a space where ideas, opinions and experiences can be freely exchanged.
OmniUM is ready to welcome all at Maastricht University for engaging, meaningful discussions that make a difference.
Who doesn't enjoy a good conversation? OmniUM offers the chance to share your opinions, gain new insights, and develop valuable skills like active listening and group discussion. It's not just about talking—it's about connecting, learning and spending time in a meaningful way. Speaking is Chibuye Changwe, the enthusiastic coordinator of the new dialogue platform, set up under the wings of Studium Generale.
Chibuye believes in the power of dialogue to bring people together. With an MSc degree in Public Policy and Human Development, as well as experience in the European Parliament and ethical lobbying, she is well-equipped to guide these discussions at UM.
"OmniUM is a platform by and for students and staff," Chibuye explains. "Participants bring their ideas, select the format, and organise the conversations. Whether it's a one-time event or a series of discussions, we provide the space and support. We work bottom up, letting students choose the topics. We're focused on facilitating, not directing or imposing. This approach ensures real engagement and lets students take ownership of their learning."
Building bridges through dialogue
The goal of OmniUM is to bridge differences, inspire critical hope, encourage reflection and critical thinking, and build an active community of students and academics coming together to imagine the future.
Chibuye stresses the importance of connecting diverse disciplines and perspectives within the UM community. By redefining how we relate to each other through conversation across disciplines. “By coming together, we can learn from each other and promote intellectual growth and democratic principles," she says.
The platform aims to become a space where students develop essential skills like critical analysis, public speaking, and collaborative problem-solving. Discussion topics may include climate change solutions, diversity, welfare issues and social developments such as current populism.
A safe space for open exchange
In an era of increasing polarisation, the need for open dialogue is more crucial than ever. "We’re living through rapid changes that affect students' mental health and well-being," Chibuye notes. "OmniUM offers a safe space for honest conversations, where we can share our concerns and envision a peaceful, just future."
Without such spaces, there's a risk of becoming isolated in our own thinking, leading to intolerance and alienation. "As an international and diverse university, we need to make room for different narratives through open and respectful dialogue," Chibuye says.
Successful pilot
Starting in September, students are invited to co-organise discussions at TapijnZ on Wednesdays, with plans to increase the frequency as interest grows. Preparations for OmniUM began in May. A pilot session organised by Global Studies students was a great success, mainly due to the mixed nature of the participants, coming from different disciplines and faculties.
"The debate was about climate solutions and 15 students from different courses took part. At first, I expected a lot of unanimity about the goal, but it soon turned out that opinions differed about how to get there. The atmosphere was good, very relaxed, the quality of the debates was high and everyone was happy. There was a lot of talking over drinks afterwards, they just couldn't get enough. That was pretty cool to see."
Growing enthusiasm
According to Chibuye, there is a lot of enthusiasm for the discussions . Not just the traditional debate groups, but others have said they are looking forward to it. In recent weeks, Chibuye has been busy spreading the word about OmniUM, ensuring that students know about this new opportunity. The platform will also be highlighted during INKOM, UM’s introductory days for new students.
"It's important that all students including first years know OmniUM is there for them," Chibuye says. "We want them to see the university as a space for critical debate and dialogue, where our new platform gives them the chance to share their views, connect with others and discover something new.
Photo: Beth Macdonald - Unsplash
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