Metropolia Building the Future of Research and Education In Europe – French President Invited University Alliance Rectors to Paris
The future of European higher education cooperation took center stage in Paris as French President Emmanuel Macron invited rectors of European university alliances to the historic Sorbonne University. Metropolia’s CEO-President Riitta Konkola took part in the event, where the key message was the role of the European Research Area in defending academic freedom and its significance for Europe’s development and competitiveness. President Macron also emphasized the need for Europe to act as a strong defender of democracy.
EU Invests in Research and Top Talent
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen highlighted Europe’s long and successful tradition in education and research. She stressed the urgent need to strengthen Europe’s position in global competition, particularly in addressing climate change and harnessing new technologies. Von der Leyen also announced a major EU funding initiative aimed at attracting top researchers to Europe.
“This event was a strong recognition of the value of research and education. It encourages us to continue collaboration with European universities, industry, and the public sector to achieve even more impactful results,” said CEO-President Riitta Konkola.
Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Education in Europe
The event also explored how to balance long-term vision with short-term goals in higher education cooperation. Panel discussions focused on the role of university alliances in developing young people's skills and enhancing the EU’s global appeal. In closing, participants called for strategic, structural investments and a shift from project-based approaches to long-lasting and impactful development work.
Another key topic was the ability of European universities to attract researchers from outside Europe—especially from the United States, where many academics are seeking alternatives due to the political climate. European university alliances were seen as key assets in this competitive landscape.
Metropolia and U!REKA at the Heart of European Development
Metropolia currently holds the chair of the U!REKA alliance, part of the European Universities Initiative. The international U!REKA alliance consists of 30 partners—higher education institutions and other stakeholders—working towards long-term, strategic collaboration in education and research.
U!REKA is building a joint European campus, promoting climate neutrality, and enabling diverse mobility for students and staff. The alliance is part of the European Universities programme envisioned in 2017 following President Macron’s vision to strengthen the global competitiveness of European higher education. Today, the programme includes 65 alliances and over 570 higher education institutions across Europe.
Metropolia plays an active role in shaping the future of the programme and in building a sustainable funding model—furthering the future of education and research on a European level.
Read more about U!REKA and Metropolia’s role in European cooperation
More information
Riitta Konkola
President and CEO, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences
riitta.konkola [at] metropolia.fi (riitta[dot]konkola[at]metropolia[dot]fi)