EULiST |

3rd International EULiST Student Conference in Brno: A Vibrant Hub of Student Engagement and Cultural Exchange

07/07/2026

True to its core philosophy, this event was completely organized by students, for students. The EULiST Student Board, in close and seamless cooperation with the international student organizing team and the host students from BUT, prepared an exceptionally professional, intense, and high-quality event.

Author: Václav Koníček

Empowering the Voice of the Alliance

The conference provides a unique, recurring platform for students to evaluate their engagement within the alliance, share academic and personal experiences, and contribute fresh ideas for strengthening future cross-border cooperation.

Author: Václav Koníček

In the opening address, Ladislav Janíček, Rector of the host institution, Brno University of Technology, reviewed the achievements of the alliance so far and highlighted the activity and commitment of students in helping fulfil the Alliance’s goals and shape its role within the European higher education landscape.

Author: Václav Koníček

“Students have become an integral part of the Alliance’s governance structure and actively participate in shaping its direction. This third student conference, together with the broad participation and engagement it attracts, demonstrates students’ interest in the life of the Alliance, which we strongly support and deeply value. Our Alliance is now approximately halfway through the funding period granted by the European Commission. We are assessing our achievements while also preparing for the continuation of our cooperation. The student voice is an important source of inspiration and feedback for us, but above all a key driver for shaping the Alliance’s future direction,” said Ladislav Janíček, who until recently served for two years as Chair of the Alliance Governing Board.

An Intensive Program Packed with Knowledge and Networking

Over four intensive days, the attendees dived into a rich and diverse program designed to broaden their horizons and build lasting professional connections. The agenda was packed with:

Interactive workshops and lectures focusing on technological advancement, societal challenges, and sustainability.
Strategic working sessions where students directly shaped the future initiatives and opportunities within EULiST.
Dynamic networking activities allowing future researchers and professionals to find common ground.

Author: Václav Koníček

However, the event was not just about hard work. A vital part of the conference was its diverse social and cultural program. Through informal evening events, city tours, and cultural exchanges, participants had a wonderful opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of Brno while discovering and celebrating the rich cultural diversity of the EULiST alliance.

A Wave of Positive Energy

Many students described the conference as a “transformative experience,” highlighting the inspiration they drew from working in multinational teams, the invaluable soft skills they developed, and – most importantly – the lifelong European friendships they established during their stay in Brno.

A Heartfelt Thank You to the Organizers

The 3rd International EULiST Student Conference has proven once again that when European students unite, they can create something truly extraordinary.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the phenomenal student organizing team, whose dedication, hard work, and professionalism brought this event to life. A big thank you also goes to all the trainers, speakers, guests, and, of course, the participants who filled the conference with energy, passion, and vision.

Visit of Ms Nana Moutafidou from the University of Stuttgart to NTUA within the EULiST Alliance

04/07/2026

On 2 July 2026, the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) welcomed Ms Nana Moutafidou from the University of Stuttgart (UST), the newest partner institution of the European University Alliance EULiST.

Ms Moutafidou is Head of the Department for Innovation and Projects in Teaching and Learning within the Student Affairs Administration of the University of Stuttgart and a member of the university’s internal EULiST Coordination Team. In her current role, she is actively exploring ways to integrate relevant University of Stuttgart courses into EULiST platforms, including the EULiST Course Catalogue, while also showing a strong interest in initiatives related to microcredentials.

During her visit to NTUA, Ms Moutafidou participated in a series of meetings aimed at strengthening collaboration between the two institutions and exchanging experiences and good practices in the areas of student support services, educational innovation, and digital learning opportunities within the EULiST framework.

The programme of meetings included:

Μeeting with the NTUA EULiST Office, attended by Prof. Emer. Katerina Adam, EULiST NTUA Scientific Responsible, Antonia Lampropoulou EULiST NTUA Local Coordinator, Department of International Relations, and Melina Giannakopoulou, member of the EULiST NTUA Coordination Team.
Μeeting with representatives of the NTUA Erasmus+ Office, including A. Kapetanaki, E. Skordalaki, and S. Pitsikalis, focusing on the exchange of experience and good practices related to student services, international mobility, and the support of students participating in European and international initiatives.
Μeeting with the EULiST NTUA Digital Campus Team, attended by Prof. Emer. Katerina Adam, EULiST NTUA Scientific Responsible, Prof. E. Dimopoulou, Prof. N. Mitrou, Konstantina Sakka, and Ioannis Mitrou. Discussions focused on the integration of University of Stuttgart courses into the EULiST Course Catalogue and on opportunities for enhancing the educational offerings available through EULiST digital platforms.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue, networking, and knowledge exchange between colleagues from NTUA and the University of Stuttgart. It further strengthened the cooperation between the two institutions and highlighted the shared commitment of EULiST partners to developing innovative, student-centred educational opportunities across Europe.

MAKE SCIENCE MATTER: The EULiST Interactive Conference in Brussels

30/06/2026

In an era of rapid technological change and complex global challenges, scientific innovation with societal impact requires active engagement and trust, not just information sharing. To drive real progress, science must be accessible, understood, and – most importantly – it must always MATTER.

To bridge this gap, EULiST – true to its core mission of linking society and technology – presents its MAKE SCIENCE MATTER interactive conference, taking place on October 15 in Brussels.

This event brings together three interconnected forces driving real-world impact from different angles:

The European Commission: Providing high-level policy, strategic vision, and funding.
European Universities: Conducting rigorous research, driving tech transfer, and transforming regional challenges into “living labs.”
European Cities & Regions: Acting as vital forces for local implementation, cohesion, and resilience.

Don’t just take a seat. Take part.

This is not a traditional conference where you just sit and listen. Real impact requires action and a multi-way dialogue. Your role as a co-creator begins the moment you register! Through our digital Interactive Area, you can share challenges, best practices, and suggestions. Your input will directly feed into our live discussions and actively shape the final EULiST Brussels Statement – a community-driven manifesto aimed at focusing future investment exactly where Europe needs it most.

Learn more about the conference and register here: Make Science Matter Conference

Delegation Visit from URJC and NTUA at Leibniz University Hannover

26/06/2026

18–19 June 2026 | Hannover, Germany

Leibniz University Hannover (LUH) welcomed a delegation from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC) and the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) on 18–19 June 2026 for a two-day collaborative visit within the EULiST Alliance.

The visit brought together faculty members, researchers, and university management from all three partner institutions to exchange insights, share ongoing activities, and identify concrete pathways for deeper collaboration in the areas of research, innovation, and outreach.

Programme Highlights

Day 1 – June 18

The first day opened with a welcome session at the TIB – Leibniz Information Centre for Science and Technology, followed by a full programme of joint presentations and discussions structured around two key work packages:

Outreach, Transfer & Communication (WP5) Representatives from LUH, NTUA, and URJC delivered impulse presentations on their respective activities, covering topics such as start-up ecosystems, science communication, technology transfer, and European network consolidation. Interactive sessions on cross-cutting topics provided space for in-depth exchange and networking.

Research & Innovation Concepts (WP4) The afternoon sessions focused on research collaboration, with presentations from all three universities on topics including part-time professorships, travel grants for young scientists, sustainability on campuses, digital twins, AI-enabled research, and European funding opportunities. Discussions centred on how to strengthen joint research activities over the next two years.

The day concluded with parallel bilateral meetings between faculty representatives and university management, allowing for focused discussions on strategic topics including quality assurance, consortium agreements, and the sustainable consolidation of the EULiST Alliance. Participants also had the opportunity to join an optional guided tour of the historic Welfenschloss and the Leibniz Calculating Machine, followed by a joint dinner.

Day 2 – June 19

The second day opened with a synthesis session on take-away messages and concrete impulses for future collaboration, before participants visited the Einstein Elevator — one of LUH’s flagship research facilities. The visit concluded with a closing lunch and farewell.

About the Visit

The delegation visit was designed to go beyond formal exchange and translate shared ideas into actionable plans.
Sessions were structured to be accessible to colleagues new to EULiST as well as those with deeper involvement, creating a foundation for faculty-level engagement across institutions.

We are grateful to all participants and speakers for their contributions, and look forward to the collaborations that will grow from these two days.

NTUA Ranked First in Greece in “QS World University Rankings 2027”

22/06/2026

Τhe National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), a member of the EULiST – European Universities Alliance, has once again been ranked as the leading university in Greece in the QS World University Rankings 2027, reaffirming its strong international reputation for academic excellence, research impact, and societal contribution.

NTUA ranked 378th worldwide among 1,504 institutions and remained the top-ranked university in Greece. Particularly notable is its research performance: the university ranks among the top 10% globally in the “Citations per Faculty” indicator, placing 173rd worldwide, while also recording strong results in the “International Research Network” indicator, reflecting the growing breadth of its international research collaborations.

The university also achieved significant progress in the QS Sustainability indicator, highlighting its commitment to sustainable development, energy-efficient infrastructure, and research aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These results build on NTUA’s strong performance in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, where it ranked 134th globally in Engineering & Technology.

As a member of the EULiST Alliance, the National Technical University of Athens actively contributes to fostering European cooperation in higher education, research, and innovation. Participation in EULiST has also played an important role in supporting NTUA’s digital transformation, advancing sustainability initiatives, creating new opportunities for early-career researchers, and enhancing the University’s international outlook through strategic partnerships and collaborative activities across Europe.

This latest achievement reflects not only NTUA’s outstanding academic and research performance, but also the transformative potential of European University Alliances in promoting excellence, innovation, and societal impact through long-term cooperation and shared ambition.

EULiST at the EU-CONEXUS Research Conference, Athens, 10–12 June 2026

15/06/2026

Professor Sotirios Karellas/ National Technical University of Athens participated as a representative of the “EULiST – European University” in the EU-CONEXUS Research Conference 2026, held in Athens on 10-12 June 2026.

The conference brought together academics, researchers, and stakeholders from across Europe to exchange knowledge and foster collaborations aimed at addressing contemporary societal and environmental challenges.

Professor S. Karellas took part in the session entitled “Research Area Structures in European University Alliances and Stakeholder Collaboration on Coastal Projects – Collaboration Opportunities”, alongside representatives of other European University Alliances that include Greek universities. The session focused on how alliances organize their research activities, leverage the research infrastructures of their member institutions, and develop collaborations with societal, institutional, and regional stakeholders.

During his presentation, Professor Karellas outlined EULiST’s vision and priorities in the fields of research and innovation, highlighting the Alliance’s efforts to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration among its partners, establish joint research initiatives, and contribute to the development of a strong European knowledge and innovation ecosystem. He also emphasized the importance of connecting academic research with the needs of society and industry, as well as the role of European University Alliances in building long-term partnerships with meaningful societal impact.

EULiST’s participation in the conference provided an important opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices with other European Alliances, reaffirming the Alliance’s commitment to actively contributing to the strengthening of the European Research Area and to the development of collaborative solutions for future challenges.

Presentation by Prof. S. Karellas: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZMlWA5Zr2GGHQdKhWQKo0v3a0mGMfIUnsBV

University of Stuttgart at NTUA

29/05/2026

As part of efforts to further reinforce the EULiST Alliance following the inclusion of the University of Stuttgart as a new member, representatives of the German institution visited the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) on Friday, May 8, 2026. The visit aimed to promote closer ties and expand cooperation between the two universities.

The delegation from the University of Stuttgart included Ms. Rubina Zern-Breuer, Director of the TRACES Technology Transfer Center, and Ms. Lisa Kohler, Head of the School for Talents. With its participation as a Cooperation Partner of the Alliance, the University of Stuttgart is anticipated to contribute substantially to the development of EULiST’s research, innovation, and educational activities.

During their visit, the two representatives initially met with the NTUA Vice Rector for Research, Innovation and Extroversion, Professor Emmanouil Varvarigos. They were then welcomed at the NTUA Technology Transfer Office, where Mr. Stelios Vernardos guided them through the Office’s activities in the presence of Ms. Alkistis Poulakaki and Ms. Maria Fountoulaki. Discussions highlighted the Office’s essential role in connecting academic research with industry, the market, and society, while also emphasizing initiatives that support the transformation of innovative research outcomes into real-world applications, products, services, and entrepreneurial ventures. A concrete follow-up agreed on during the visit is to establish a closer link between the two universities’ transfer structures – the TRACES Transfer Center at the University of Stuttgart and the NTUA Technology Transfer Office – to leverage complementary expertise and amplify broader societal impact.

The program continued at the EULiST Office of NTUA, where future collaborative actions within the Alliance were explored together with the Scientific Coordinator of EULiST, Professor Emeritus Katerina Adam, the Head of the Department of International Relations and European Union and NTUA’s Local Coordinator for EULiST, Antonia Lampropoulou, and Melina Giannakopoulou from the EULiST Office.

The visit concluded with a meeting with the student team Odyceo NTUA. The guests were introduced to the team’s innovative projects, achievements, and entrepreneurial activities through presentations by team members Konstantinos Goudas, Giannos Stergiou, Stelios Mastorakis, and Alexandros Kollias.

Within the discussions regarding technology transfer, it was concluded that both universities seek to develop strategic international partnerships’ collaboration, to leverage complementary expertise, access diverse perspectives, and amplify the societal impact.

Within the discussions regarding activities to ensure the continuous upgrading of education for the next generation of talented graduates with a synthetic mindset and critical thinking, both universities agreed that numerous opportunities are already provided within the scientific disciplines and interdisciplinary teams. EULiST cooperation will enable the introduction of targeted training programs and curriculum upgrading for future generations of students, teachers, researchers and life-long learners ready to develop solutions for societal challenges through science.

This shift towards a society-centered linking with technology requires a commitment by EULiST partners, that this visit has once again justified.

LUT University hosted an EULiST BIP programme in Lappeenranta

25/05/2026

The programme showed how higher education can help build a sustainable future and respond to global challenges.

LUT University hosted an Erasmus+ funded Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) called Developing Global Citizenship through Interculturality and Sustainability in Lappeenranta, Finland, on 18–22 May 2026.

The programme welcomed over 30 students from eight EULiST partner universities. Five intercultural communication teachers from the alliance taught and supported the students. The BIP was hosted by the Language Centre and coordinated by Jaana Häkli, senior lecturer in intercultural communication.

This BIP was part of the EULiST Alliance Languages and Communication programme. It helped students become responsible and active members of a global society. Students practised cultural sensitivity and critical thinking. They also learned how to work well in multicultural teams.

Global citizenship in a Finnish environment

The programme started in April with three online sessions. In these sessions, students learned about Finnish culture, global citizenship, and sustainability thinking. They also worked online in teams on a research-based pre-assignment.

At the start of the on-site week in Lappeenranta, the teams presented their results. After that, they worked on an authentic sustainability-related challenge.

The week also included free-time activities. Students visited a Finnish sauna and took a cruise on Lake Saimaa. The long and light evenings in May are special for many visitors. Students joined from many European countries and from, for example, Brazil and India.

Multicultural learning and sustainability at the core

The programme focused on global citizenship, the Sustainable Development Goals, and intercultural communication. Students worked in multicultural teams during the whole week.

The students learned to notice cultural differences and used this knowledge in study and work settings. The programme also helped students act responsibly when they face social and environmental challenges. It supported the development of a global citizen identity.

International collaboration opens new perspectives

The programme brought together students from engineering, business, and social sciences. They worked together in international teams and learn from each other. This helped them build skills they will need in working life. The programme also encouraged values such as empathy, responsibility, and solidarity. These values support a sustainable and fair future.

Part of a broader shift in education

LUT University’s BIP was part of a wider change in education. Today, many universities focus more on global citizenship and sustainability.

The United Nations and UNESCO also highlight the role of education in building learners’ skills and capabilities. This programme supported that goal. It also showed how higher education can help build a sustainable future and respond to global challenges.

More information:

Jaana Häkli, Senior Lecturer in Intercultural Communication, jaana.hakli@lab.fi

EULiST General Assembly 2026: A Turning Point Toward Deep Integration and Strategic Growth

18/05/2026

From May 11th to 13th, the EULiST Alliance gathered at LUT University in Lappeenranta, Finland, for the 2026 General Assembly.

Three days of intensive workshops, strategic presentations, and high-level meetings marked a milestone transition from the alliance’s foundational years to a phase of “deep integration” and structural transformation.

New Leadership and Strategic Partnerships

The Assembly was a landmark for EULiST governance. Following a vote by the Governing Board, Måns Svensson (President of Jönköping University) was announced as the new Chair, with Jens Schneider (Rector of TU Wien) serving as Co-Chair for the 2026–2028 term.
The Management Board also welcomed its newly elected Co-Chairs, Maria Benedetta Mattei University of L’Aquila (UNIVAQ), and Olivier Epinette (IMT).
Student board members representing all member universities held a dedicated vote to choose their new leadership directly from among their peers. As a result, the newly elected Chairing Team of the Student Board consists of Adam Gašparovič from the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava (STU), Beatrice Ion from LUT University, and Cristiana Maria Muresanu from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC).
In a historic move for the alliance’s expansion, an official cooperation agreement was signed with the University of Stuttgart. As a new Cooperation Partner, Stuttgart will play a vital role in strengthening our joint research and innovation ecosystem.

From Activity to Transformation: Reviewing Our Progress & Strategy

The core of the Assembly was dedicated to assessing where we stand today and where we want to be by the 2035 horizon. Through comprehensive updates from the Governing Board, the Secretary General, the Management Board, and Work Package leaders and co-leaders, the alliance evaluated the past year’s progress, analyzed key performance indicators (KPIs), and openly addressed our future challenges and immediate priorities.

To ensure long-term institutional sustainability, the project writing team also held dedicated meetings during the Assembly to work on the upcoming EU project proposal, securing seamless continuity for the alliance.

Building Trust and Collaboration Through Interactivity

The entire event was driven by active participation. Rather than just listening to presentations, attendees actively shaped the alliance’s direction through panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and direct feedback surveys.

A central highlight was a powerful lecture on TRUST—the fundamental key to success for any organization, and a core pillar for EULiST as we deepen our institutional integration. Attendees also enjoyed insightful sessions on Finnish culture, providing a wonderful context to our hosting environment.

The main program concluded with presentations from the Coordination Office, where all Units – the backbone of our daily activities – showcased their achievements, plans, and challenges for the next phase.

Parallel working sessions across various WPs, boards, and units further maximized the value of this face-to-face gathering.

10 Countries, Now 11 Universities, One Single Team: Kiitos, LUT!

Beyond the intense program full of presentations, discussions, meetings, and interactions, the social and cultural activities proved that, despite coming from 10 different countries, EULiST operates as one united team.

The immense success of this General Assembly would not have been possible without the flawless organization and incredible hospitality of our hosts.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Rector Juha-Matti Saksa and the entire LUT University team for providing such an inspiring, welcoming, and beautiful campus environment that fostered deep collaboration, innovation, and lasting friendships.

Together, we are driving a true European transformation.

EULiST Alliance Announces New Leadership: Continuity and Vision for 2026–2028

17/05/2026

Following a recent vote by the EULiST Governing Board, the new leadership for the 2026–2028 term was officially announced during the General Assembly.

In a move that underscores stability and a shared vision for the future, Måns Svensson, President of Jönköping University, has been elected as Chair, and Jens Schneider, Rector of TU Wien, as Co-Chair of the EULiST Governing Board.

A significant moment of the Assembly was the official handover of leadership. The outgoing Chair, Ladislav Janíček (Rector of Brno University of Technology), and Co-Chair Juha-Matti Saksa (Rector of LUT University), passed the symbolic torch to their successors. The Alliance expressed deep gratitude to Rectors Ladislav Janíček and Juha-Matti Saksa for their foundational leadership and commitment during the early stages of EULiST.

The election saw unanimous support from the Rectors of all member institutions. This appointment reflects the Alliance’s commitment to leadership continuity, which is vital for the long-term sustainability and growth of our European University initiative.