WSB University leading the way in preventing student dropouts

Fewer drop-outs, more diplomas – WSB University is among the top institutions actively supporting student retention. Our university has been selected to receive funding under the competition FERS.01.05-IP.08-005/24 “Effective University Management to Minimize Drop-Outs”, implemented as part of the European Social Development Funds 2021–2027 program.

The project “EduConnect – A Systemic Model for Minimizing Drop-Outs at WSB University” received over PLN 2.4 million in funding and was highly rated by experts from the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR), ranking among the top 3 projects nationwide.

Why focus on drop-outs?
Leaving studies before graduation is an issue affecting more and more universities in Poland and across Europe. Drop-out is not merely about discontinuing education – it also represents:

loss of development opportunities for young people,
a challenge for the economy, which needs skilled professionals,
a burden on the higher education system as a whole.
Research shows that the main reasons for drop-outs include difficulties in balancing studies with work and personal life, uninformed choice of study program, and personal problems (including health and financial issues). Every student lost is not only a personal setback but also a challenge for the entire higher education system and the economy. Universities must respond by offering solutions that support retention, flexibility, and personalized learning paths.

WSB University’s support system
WSB University provides a comprehensive student support system, including financial and psychological assistance, individualized study plans, career counseling, mentoring, additional interpersonal and professional training, and hybrid learning options. The EduConnect project focuses on implementing systemic, educational, infrastructural, and digital innovations to further personalize support and increase flexibility in learning paths.

Key initiatives under EduConnect
Advanced drop-out monitoring and diagnosis system – enables early identification of risks, analysis of risk factors, and design of targeted support measures based on data.
Hy-Flex learning model – an innovative approach combining on-campus, online, and hybrid teaching to increase flexibility and accessibility.
Development of e-services and a mobile app – digital tools to facilitate study management, document submission, progress monitoring, and time management.
Support for prospective students in choosing study programs – through interactive recruitment webinars, video materials, and videocasts with experts.
Dr. Sabina Ratajczak, Vice-Rector for Development at WSB University, emphasizes:
"The Hy-Flex methodology is an advanced hybrid learning model. In classrooms equipped with audio and video systems, students attend either on-site or online. The lecturer designs and conducts sessions so that all participants can collaborate effectively, regardless of their mode of attendance."

The EduConnect project continues WSB Academy’s long-standing efforts, building on previous EU and internal initiatives. The project sets a new standard, creating a systemic, sustainable, and comprehensive model for preventing drop-outs across the Academy.

The high evaluation by NCBR experts confirms that WSB University is a leader in modern and innovative higher education solutions.

For more information about projects implemented by WSB University, please check here