The times we live in are marked by great challenges that the population is forced to deal with. Climate change, digital transformation, population aging, the global health crisis and the economic consequences it entails are making the contribution of universities and other higher education institutions more necessary now than ever before.
Universities and the entire higher education sector are in a unique position - at the crossroads of education, research and innovation, shaping sustainable and resilient economies and making the European Union greener, more inclusive and digital.
The two new initiatives - a European strategy for universities and a Commission proposal for a Council Recommendation on building bridges for effective European higher education cooperation - will support universities in their work.
The European strategy for universities Europe is home to close to 5,000 higher education institutions, 17.5 million tertiary education students, 1.35 million people teaching in tertiary education and 1.17 million researchers. This strategy intends to support and enable all universities in Europe to adapt to changing conditions, to thrive and to contribute to Europe's resilience and recovery. It proposes a set of important actions, to support Europe's universities towards achieving its objectives.
Building bridges for effective European higher education cooperation the Commission proposal for a Council Recommendation aims to enable European higher education institutions to cooperate closer and deeper, to facilitate the implementation of joint transnational educational programmes and activities, pooling capacity and resources, or awarding joint degrees. It will facilitate the flow of knowledge and build a stronger link between education, research and innovative industrial communities. The objective is notably to support the provision of high-quality life-long learning opportunities for everyone with a focus on the most needed skills and competences to face today's economic and societal demands.
Coordination of efforts between the EU, Member States, regions, civil society and the higher education sector is key to make the European strategy for universities a reality. The Commission invites the Council, Member States and universities to discuss on this policy agenda and work jointly towards future-proof universities.
The Commission proposal for a Council recommendation on building bridges for effective European higher education cooperation will be discussed with Member States. Once adopted by the Council, the Commission will support Member States and relevant partners in implementing this Council Recommendation.
More information available at: https://education.ec.europa.eu/document/commission-communication-on-a-european-strategy-for-universities
Source: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_22_365