Representatives of the EMERGE European University Alliance participated in the 4th European Universities Initiative (EUI) Forum, held in Maynooth, Ireland, on 9 and 10 July 2026. The event brought together European University Alliances from across the continent to discuss the future of collaboration in higher education under the Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
EMERGE was represented by Ricardo Cao, Chair of the EMERGE Governing Board and Rector of the University of A Coruña, Lesley Lelourec, EMERGE Secretary General, together with members of the University of Limerick EMERGE team, Colin Fitzpatrick, Vice President Global & Community Engagement, John Mulcahy, EMERGE Programme Manager, and Tabea Baum.
Held under the theme “Walls that Stand, Scaffolding that Supports: The Future of European University Alliances,” the forum explored how European University Alliances are shaping the future of higher education through cooperation, innovation, and shared responsibility.
A recurring message throughout the discussions was captured by the Irish proverb, “Ní neart go cur le chéile”, meaning “There is no strength without unity.” This reflected the shared understanding that the long-term success of the European Universities Initiative depends not only on the achievements of individual alliances, but also on collaboration between alliances to strengthen the European Higher Education Area.
The programme addressed the evolving role of European University Alliances in promoting inclusion, democratic values, intercultural dialogue, innovation, and civic engagement across Europe. Participants also examined the challenges associated with ensuring the long-term sustainability of the initiative, including embedding alliances within institutional structures, maintaining effective governance beyond funding cycles, and preserving the trust and flexibility that underpin successful cooperation.
For EMERGE, the forum provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge and good practices with fellow alliances while contributing to discussions on the future of European higher education. The event reinforced the Alliance’s commitment to building strong partnerships, supporting regional development, and advancing inclusive, cross-border collaboration that benefits students, staff, researchers, and local communities.
As EMERGE continues to develop its activities across its nine partner universities, participation in the EUI Forum strengthens its contribution to the European Universities Initiative and its shared vision of empowering Europe’s geographical and societal margins through education, research, and community engagement.