Arqus takes part in the Coimbra Annual Conference, highlighting the role of European University Alliances in territorial transformation

Arqus has participated in the Coimbra Group Annual Conference and General Assembly 2026, held at the University of Granada from 16 to 19 June under the theme “Transforming the Local and Social Environment through Research and Innovation.”

The meeting brought together representatives from leading European universities to reflect on the role of higher education institutions in strengthening their relationships with their local communities and addressing societal challenges through collaboration, research and innovation.

As part of the conference programme, Dorothy Kelly, Arqus Coordinator, participated in the session IV, dedicated to “Best Practices from European University Alliances: Research and Innovation for Territorial Transformation”, where representatives from European University Alliances shared experiences and approaches on how alliances contribute to regional development and cooperation with their surrounding ecosystems.

During the Gala Dinner, Dorothy Kelly also received a recognition from the Coimbra Group, highlighting her contribution to European university cooperation and her commitment to strengthening collaboration across higher education institutions.

The signing of the Poitiers-Granada Declaration: a significant step

The week represented a highly productive opportunity for exchange, networking and joint reflection among European universities. A key milestone of the conference was the launch of the Poitiers-Granada Declaration on the Collaboration between Universities and Cities, reaffirming the commitment of universities to work together with their local communities for inclusive, innovative and sustainable development.

The Declaration was officially launched at the University of Granada during the closing session of the conference and was signed by Ludovic Thilly, Chair of the Coimbra Group Executive Board; Pedro Mercado, Rector of the University of Granada; Marifrán Carazo, Mayor of Granada; and Francisco Rodríguez, President of the Granada Provincial Council.

This renewed commitment builds on the original Poitiers Declaration adopted in 2016 and reinforces the importance of university-city cooperation in areas such as sustainability, social cohesion, innovation, democratic participation and territorial transformation.

For Arqus, the participation in this important European gathering represents another step forward in strengthening the role of European University Alliances as key actors in building bridges between universities, cities and society.

Photos by the University of Granada’s central communications office