A new EU‑funded initiative is taking shape in Central Denmark, aiming to improve the retention of international students after graduation. As outlined by the Central Denmark EU Office, Studenterhus Aarhus is leading the Work Without Borders project—an Interreg Øresund‑Kattegat‑Skagerrak collaboration designed to help international students navigate cultural expectations, build networks, and transition more smoothly into the Scandinavian job market. The project brings together regional partners who will work to develop models for career guidance, mentoring, and employer engagement. The initiative responds to a growing challenge across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway: despite strong demand for skilled workers, many international graduates leave the region shortly after completing their studies. By addressing unwritten rules of the Nordic labor market and improving access to professional networks, the project aims to strengthen both regional competitiveness and students’ long‑term prospects.

The first partner meeting in Aarhus marked a strong and united start for the Work Without Borders project, bringing together partners from Denmark, Norway, and Sweden to establish a shared understanding of the project’s direction and expectations. Over two intensive days, participants engaged in inspiration sessions, structured discussions, and hands‑on activity planning that collectively set the foundation for the development and testing phases ahead. The programme included presentations on cross‑border talent mobility, Scandinavian employability, and the challenges international students and graduates face when transitioning into the labour market. Activity Groups focusing on webinars, career‑learning initiatives, employer engagement, and graduate networking began their coordinated work, allowing partners to align timelines, methodologies, and responsibilities across regions. Amidst these professional sessions, the sense of cohesion within the partnership was evident. Reflecting on t

Viktoria Nilsson highlighted collaboration with Work Without Borders, strengthening international student support, boosting talent retention, and building an inclusive Scandinavian labour market through shared insights. You find the post here