Arqus participates in the conference “Towards a stronger Europe”

Dorothy Kelly, Arqus coordinator, and Gemma Irvine, Vice-President of Maynooth University, are taking part today, 27 May, in the conference “Towards a Stronger Europe: Franco-German-Irish Perspectives on the Future of European University Alliances” in Dublin. Matthias Middle, Leipzig University Vice-Rector, is also attending the conference.

This conference is organised by the French and German Embassies in Ireland, with the support of the Irish Universities Association and the Technological Higher Education Association. It aims to foster dialogue and exchange of best practices among academic institutions from France, Ireland and Germany that are part of European University Alliances.

Dorothy Kelly is a speaker at the panel “Opportunities and challenges in Franco-German-Irish collaboration”, sharing Arqus’ efforts, achievements and highlights, as the Alliance includes the universities of Leipzig, Lyon 1 and Maynooth.

Gemma Irvine, the Vice-President for Equality & Diversity of Maynooth University, participates in the panel “Education, skills and lifelong learning”, discussing how alliances can adapt education to meet new skills needs without compromising academic excellence.

Matthias Middle, the Vice-Rector for Campus Development, Cooperation and Internationalisation, is also attending the conference to represent Leipzig University.

The conference “Towards a Stronger Europe” aims to address several critical questions, including:

• What is the future of these alliances beyond 2027?
• How can they be financed after the current funding period?
• What should be the role of national funding in supporting these alliances?
• What final objectives should be envisaged for the evolution and impact of these alliances?

By bringing together key stakeholders, the conference seeks to lay the groundwork for a more robust and effective collaboration that aligns with the objectives of the European Higher Education Area: not only academic excellence but also shared European identity, heritage and values.

This conference represents a significant opportunity for universities to come together, share insights, and develop actionable strategies that will enhance the effectiveness of their alliances. It is a crucial platform for universities from France, Ireland and Germany to discuss collaborative opportunities, share innovative practices, and address common challenges faced within European University Alliances.