Today, EURASHE participated in the high-level meeting “Shaping the Future: European Universities Alliances for a Competitive Europe” in Brussels. This pivotal event brought together representatives from all 65 European Universities alliances, Seal of Excellence holders, Members of the European Parliament, national and regional authorities from EU countries, key higher education stakeholders, European student organizations, and private sector entrepreneurs and companies.
The European Universities Initiative is a groundbreaking effort aimed at transforming higher education across Europe. By fostering deeper cooperation between institutions, it seeks to create transnational alliances that enhance student mobility, strengthen research and innovation, and contribute to Europe’s sustainable competitiveness. These alliances play a crucial role in shaping the future of education by bridging the gap between academia, industry, and society.
Key Discussion Topics
The high-level meeting served as a platform to reflect on the achievements of the European Universities Initiative, address remaining challenges, and identify pathways to ensure its long-term success. Discussions focused on key enabling factors that will allow alliances to further contribute to Europe’s sustainable prosperity and competitiveness, while upholding democratic values and promoting social fairness.
Demonstrating our strong commitment to enhancing applied higher education, EURASHE engaged in several strategic activities during the event:
- On 26 February, EURASHE President Hannes Raffaseder (St. Pölten UAS, E³UDRES² European University) met with Roxana Mînzatu, European Commission Executive Vice President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs and Preparedness. The discussions centered on strengthening applied higher education and fostering deeper collaboration between universities and industry partners.
- This morning, Prof. Martina Klärle (Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University, EU4DUAL) participated in a high-level panel focusing on innovation ecosystems in regions, emphasising the critical role of transnational cooperation in fostering regional development and innovation.
Professor Klärle also highlighted EURASHE’s efforts in promoting collaboration through its Sounding Board for the European Universities Initiative. This informal grouping brings together alliances that offer Applied Higher Education, providing a dedicated space to discuss key issues in the implementation and monitoring of alliances. The Sounding Board acts as the voice of applied sciences within the Initiative and its Community of Practice, notably through the FOREU4ALL project.
Looking Ahead
EURASHE remains committed to supporting the European Universities Initiative and its vision of a cohesive and competitive European Education Area. By facilitating collaboration among applied universities, industry, and regional partners, EURASHE aims to drive innovation, sustainability, and social equity across Europe.
