
Safety in mobility
The University of Padua believes it is essential to ensurethe safety and well-beingof studentsduring their mobility abroad.
During mobility, various types of emergencies can arise, each of which may require a different approach on how to act. Knowledge of what to do in the event of danger, the tools to use and the institutions to involve is crucial for managing risky situations effectively. For this reason, it is essential to prepare yourself as well as possible by training and informing yourself before you leave.
Before the Mobility
Various tools and actions can help students during the preparation phase of the mobility:
Ready-to-Mobile
The Mobility Unit has implemented the Moodle course “Ready to Mobile: your starter kit.” This is a compulsory course, to be taken before departure, which includes six modules, one of which is dedicated to safety. The module serves as a practical guide to prevent risky situations and properly handle emergencies, while offering useful tips for staying abroad.
Information to keep in mind
Before departure, it is important to gather information on several issues that could affect mobility, in particular: identifying any risks associated with the period abroad, learning about the geopolitical, economic, cultural, and socio-health context of the destination country, and checking whether the Partner University adopts specific emergency measures and safety procedures.
It is advisable to identify services (including the healthcare system) and memorize the emergency contact numbers of the destination country.
The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAECI)
First, it is essential to consult the website of the for information about the destination country.
The platform provides up-to-date information on the health situation, travel conditions, necessary documentation required for entry, visas/temporary residence permits, and relevant local regulations. It also allows you to check government restrictions related to travel and health in the destination country.
It is always preferable to register on the MAECI website, “Dove siamo nel mondo”:
Cultural preparation
It is important not to overlook the cultural aspects of the destination country and the impact they may have on mobility. Therefore, it is advisable to inform oneself about the rules and customs of the country derived from religious and cultural aspects (festivities, food rules, behavioural norms, etc.).
In order to ensure easier adaptation, it is essential to work on one’s intercultural skills. There are various courses with this goal, including Arqus MoVEs, the pre-mobility program organized by the Arqus Alliance, of which the University of Padua is part.
Health and Travel Insurance
For health insurance coverage while staying abroad in countries outside the European Union, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued by the Ministry of Health is not sufficient. It is therefore necessary to take out a private insurance.
Tuition fees paid to the University of Padua also include insurance coverage for accidents and civil liability insurance, which is valid for those traveling abroad. More information about insurance coverage abroad can be found at: /assicurazione.
These insurances cover only accidents that occur during educational activities and/or internships. It is therefore advisable to subscribe to a private insurance that covers accidents not related to study activities, ensuring that there are no overlaps with the existing coverage.
The FG insurance policies do not cover incidents related to the practice of the medical profession and healthcare facilities. Therefore, students in the healthcare field are responsible for obtaining specific insurance independently.
Finally, it is preferable to take out a travel insurance policy before departure to protect against cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and other issues.
Emergency contact and Mobility Online
It is important to identify someone among your family and acquaintances who can be contacted by the University and, if necessary, by the authorities in case of an emergency.
Students with an active account on Mobility Online will be asked to enter the identified emergency contact. Additionally, in the event of significant situations, a safety check will be sent via the platform, allowing students to confirm (or not) their well-being status.
During the mobility
During mobility, it is essential to behave responsibly, stay informed about the security situation in the host country, follow any instructions provided by the competent authorities, and regularly communicate with family members, as well as with the home and host universities, reporting any health or safety issues.
It is also important to identify the diplomatic representations in the area, follow their activities through the Internet and social media, and notify them of your presence in the area, if necessary.