The first 17 group winners of an EU €85 million matchmaking scheme to create ‘European Universities’ in which institutions will pool their expertise and resources to deliver new, joint curricula to students, have been announced.
In total, 114 universities from 24 countries were successful in the first round of applications. The selection ranges from universities of applied sciences, technical universities and fine arts to comprehensive and research-intensive universities. Each group will receive up to €5 million over three years to start implementing their plans.
What role do universities play in a contemporary world?
Higher education institutes have long been known as hubs of knowledge of production and a means of gaining a respected qualification. But today, universities play a much bigger and more important role: preparing students for diverse roles in their future, whether it’s academic or professional.
Stakeholders and partners have growing concerns over whether universities are developing students with the skills and competencies needed to thrive in the digital era.
The buzzword “innovation” might perk you up – or make your eyes roll. Regardless of how the term sits with you, innovation is clearly on the federal government’s agenda and of big interest to universities as they try to keep pace with rapid changes in society and the economy, while staying responsive to government funding priorities and continuing to meet the needs of their students, faculty and the wider community.
