The EU GREEN Alliance has actively participated in the high-level meeting “Shaping the Future: European Universities Alliances for a Competitive Europe,” organized by the European Commission on February 26-27, 2025. This event gathered representatives from European Universities alliances, Seal of Excellence holders, key higher education stakeholders, student organizations, European Parliament members, and national representatives to reflect on the progress, challenges, and future of the European Universities Initiative.
Representing EU GREEN, Pedro M. Fernández, Rector of the University of Extremadura, and Hermínia Vilar, Rector of the University of Évora, took part in discussions on the alliance’s role in transforming the European higher education landscape, fostering sustainability and innovation, and strengthening cooperation with regional and international stakeholders.
The event began on February 26 with a keynote address by Roxana Mînzatu, Commission Executive Vice-President for Social Rights and Skills, Quality Jobs, and Preparedness. A closed-door meeting of European Universities rectors, including EU GREEN representatives, took place with Vice-President Mînzatu to discuss how alliances contribute to the strategic transformation of the European higher education sector, fostering future-proof skills, strategic autonomy, and European competitiveness.
On February 27, a full-day session brought together European Universities alliances, student organizations, and representatives from the European Parliament and Member States. Discussions focused on how alliances play a key role in transforming higher education and strengthening European cooperation. The second part of the event explored the contribution of alliances to innovation ecosystems and regional development, aiming to boost Europe’s global competitiveness.
EU GREEN’s participation in these discussions highlights its commitment to building a stronger European Higher Education Area, promoting academic cooperation, sustainable innovation, and social inclusion. The alliance remains at the forefront of shaping the future of higher education, ensuring that universities play a leading role in Europe’s sustainable prosperity and democratic values.
