As part of the Bridge to EU project, ReSPA will launch its new Leadership Academy with an online introductory session on 3 September 2026. The session will prepare participants for the Academy’s upcoming learning activities in Paris and Brussels, introducing the programme, its partners, experts and innovative learning approach.

The session will be opened by Jelena Mrdak, Director a.i. of ReSPA, followed by contributions from Paul Halluin of the Institut national du service public (INSP), Simona Daniela Pavelescu from the European Commission Visitors’ Centre, Christiane Keutgens and Celia Pessaud from the European School of Administration (EuSA), and Peter Vandenbruaene and Mélanie Recour from the Belgian Federal Public Service Policy and Support (BOSA).

Osman Bayraktar and Valentina Miličić from the Croatian National School of Public Administration will also introduce the Beyond Classroom Learning model, which combines formal learning with institutional visits, peer exchange, reflection and practical application.

The online gathering will offer participants an opportunity to meet one another, learn more about the Academy’s European learning journey and receive practical information ahead of the first module in Paris and the activities that will follow in Brussels.