"At this meeting we discussed the long-term financing of university alliances, the possibility of introducing a joint European degree and other measures that will strengthen the competitiveness of European higher education," said Rector Tomáš Gongol. "These meetings are important not only for the universities themselves, but also for the regions in which they operate. Silesian University is actively involved in European cooperation, which has a direct impact on the educational and professional opportunities of our students and academic staff."

The meeting brought together the presidents and rectors of 65 European University alliances to discuss the future of higher education in Europe. Key topics included the internationalisation of education and the promotion of student mobility, but also the role of artificial intelligence, sustainability and the development of student start-ups.

"A joint European degree or a deeper interconnection of study programmes across universities is a great opportunity for Silesian University as well. We want to make it easier for students to travel abroad and access educational programmes with an international dimension," said Rector Gongol.

According to the European Commission, university alliances play a key role in modernising higher education and ensuring its competitiveness. Roxana Mînzatu, Vice-President of the European Commission for Social Affairs in Brussels, stressed that university alliances help overcome the fragmentation of the education system in Europe and strengthen cooperation between universities.

The Silesian University in Opava will continue to actively participate in European initiatives to ensure the best possible conditions for its students and academics in their education, research and employment.