Academy of Understanding
PEOPLE SKILLS FOR GLOBAL CITIZENS

Walk to Understanding

The Walk to Understanding is the latest branch on the Academy of Understanding tree. Inspired by the Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Walk to Understanding takes students from every part of the world out of the comfort zone of their educational institutions into the vast and beautiful nature of northwest Spain. There they will walk for 5 days on the ancient pilgrim route, guided by teachers. And that’s not all. Along the way, the students will be given assignments to discover secrets of 21st-century skills and becoming a true global citizen.

The Walk to Understanding is not just about the walking; it’s about the findings on your path 

Adding educational aspects to the walk and giving students the pleasure of discovering their own Camino (Camino means: the way) during the walk turned out to be a great mix. It is our intention to develop Walks to Understanding all over the world. Not only for students, but for anyone seeking to combine healthy walks with reflection and appreciative dialogues with fellow ‘pilgrims to understanding’. Every continent, country, region should have its own Walk of Understanding. The Academy of Understanding is currently talking with global partners to realize this ambition, that should contribute to more mutual understanding anywhere in the world.

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Summer 2024: the first Walk to Understanding in association with Summer School Utrecht 

From 21 to 27 June 2024 the first group of international students walked the first Walk to Understanding. Together with a team of teachers and trainers they started in León (Spain) and walked several stages to Ponferrada while investigating 21st century skills for global citizens. On the left is the proud first group of alumni!  

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Interested in Creating Your Own Walk to Understanding?

We’re excited to partner with universities across Europe and beyond to help them host their very own Walk to Understanding. Whether you’re looking to bring this inspiring experience to your campus, community or abroad, we can provide a custom-tailored package to suit your needs. Let’s start the conversation!

Feel free to reach out anytime—we’d love to help you organize a walk that makes a meaningful impact.

How to apply for the 2nd Walk to Understanding at Utrecht Summer School?

Got curious? The 2nd Walk to Understanding is in the making. Want to know more? Send us an e-mail and we will keep you in the loop or check the website of Utrecht Summer School.

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The Walk to Understanding for professionals

Professionals who would like to experience the Camino and our program are welcome to join too. There will be a separate program for you. Use the button below to show your interest in the Walk of Understanding. We will contact you for further information.