Applied Science in Europe: Learning from each other

Co-organised in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Brussels office, this conference will bring together representatives of UAS and higher education institutions in Europe, exploring how practice-oriented higher education institutions are structured and positioned across Europe. Participants will exchange perspectives on governance models, institutional profiles, shared challenges, and future developments in applied science and transfer.

Registrations are currently open until 30 September. Participation in the conference is free of charge.

Europe’s renewed focus on competitiveness has placed research, innovation and skills at the centre of its economic strategy. As the European Union seeks to strengthen its global position in an increasingly competitive geopolitical landscape, the contribution of the applied sciences has never been more important. They bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical implementation, enabling businesses, public services and communities to translate knowledge into innovation, productivity and societal impact.

The European Commission’s Competitiveness Compass and the recommendations of the Draghi Report (2024) have reinforced the need to accelerate innovation, improve knowledge transfer and strengthen Europe’s capacity to bring new ideas to market. Institutions specialising in applied science, including universities of applied sciences, polytechnics and technological universities, play a crucial role in this ecosystem through close collaboration with industry, SMEs and regional innovation partners.

This half-day event will explore the diverse structures that support applied science across Europe, examine their contribution to competitiveness and regional innovation, and discuss how they can evolve to meet Europe’s future economic, technological and societal challenges.