On May 7th, 2025, Comillas University hosted a special event under the European HRS4R (Human Resources Strategy for Researchers) initiative, highlighting the role of research in fostering positive social transformation. The gathering brought together a diverse audience of researchers, academics, students, and doctoral candidates to exchange insights and best practices on research with social impact.
Representing the Comillas team, Mercedes Fernández, Director of the University Institute for Migration Studies (IUEM), presented the LET’S CARE project, which explores how reinforcing the dimension of care in inclusive education can help reduce early school dropout and improve academic achievement, with special attention to vulnerable populations. At the heart of the project is the development of a multidimensional and multilayered theoretical model of Safe Education, grounded in both desk and qualitative field research, and validated through a large-scale international questionnaire. LET’S CARE translates this knowledge into political and social action through targeted recommendations and pilot initiatives aimed at systemic change.
To maximize its impact, the project is building a Europe-wide infrastructure to engage key educational stakeholders—up to 300 groups, including 200 schools, 35 public authorities, and 40 civil society organizations across at least 10 countries. With an expected reach of over 30,000 students (60% in vulnerable conditions), LET’S CARE seeks not only to inform policy but also to position its Safe Education model within the European agenda by 2028, aiming for its adoption in the educational plans of 5 to 8 countries.
