The Professional Development Workshop in Library and Information Services (PDWL) and Faculty Development Programme (FDP) Pre-departure Meeting for Facilitators and Travellers was held to prepare participants for an upcoming international professional learning experience and to establish shared expectations ahead of the programme.

The meeting brought together facilitators and travellers to discuss the programme itinerary, clarify participant roles and responsibilities, and provide an opportunity to address key matters related to the learning experience. Through open discussion and interaction, participants were encouraged to understand the objectives of the programme and consider how they could actively contribute to and benefit from the international learning experience.

A key focus of the session was building a shared learning mindset among participants. The meeting encouraged participants to approach the programme with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to learn from different professional and cultural contexts. Facilitators and travellers were also encouraged to engage in meaningful dialogue and share expectations, helping to create a supportive learning environment before the commencement of the programme.

The pre-departure engagement also highlighted the importance of cross-cultural collaboration and professional exchange. As participants prepare to engage with international colleagues, institutions, and professional practices, the session provided an opportunity to consider how knowledge and experiences gained during the programme could be shared and applied within their respective professional contexts.

By clarifying the programme structure and participant responsibilities in advance, the meeting aimed to support active participation throughout the international learning experience. Participants were encouraged to take responsibility for their learning, engage with fellow participants and facilitators, and make meaningful contributions to discussions and activities during the programme.

The meeting formed an important preparatory component of the PDWL/FDP initiative, supporting the broader objective of strengthening professional capacity through international exposure, knowledge exchange, and continuous learning. It also created an opportunity for participants to establish connections and develop a sense of shared purpose before travelling, laying the foundation for continued engagement beyond the programme itself.

The activity contributed to Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education by supporting lifelong learning and professional development through an international learning opportunity. It also aligned with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by contributing to the development of professional knowledge, skills, and competencies relevant to participants’ fields of work.

The emphasis on inclusive participation and engagement across different professional and cultural backgrounds supported SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by creating opportunities for participants to access international learning and professional development experiences. The focus on informed participation, dialogue, and responsible engagement also contributed to SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, particularly through promoting constructive dialogue, understanding, and collaborative professional engagement.

Furthermore, the meeting demonstrated the importance of institutional and professional cooperation in achieving shared learning objectives. Through collaboration among facilitators, travellers, and programme partners, the initiative contributed to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, strengthening networks for knowledge exchange and sustained professional collaboration.

The PDWL/FDP Pre-departure Meeting therefore served as an important foundation for the international programme, preparing participants not only for the practical aspects of travel and participation but also for a meaningful learning experience grounded in collaboration, reflection, professional growth, and continued knowledge sharing.