"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.