University of Lisbon hosts European conference on innovation, inclusion and transformation in higher education

Inserted within the Unite!Widening project, the event will take place at NCBR Brussels Office, introducing itself as a practical platform where science, technology and industry team up to transform knowledge into impactful solutions in the market. The meeting will bring together political decision-makers, rectors, researchers, and business partners to discuss the future of higher education and research in Europe.

This conference takes place in an environment of profound change in the European higher education landscape. Upon focusing on widening participation, discussion is now centred on the structural transformation of universities, reinforcing their roles as engines for innovation, regional growth, and the strategic autonomy of the European Union.

The main objectives of the meeting include:

• Development of more dynamic innovation ecosystems;
• Valuing scientific knowledge and its transfer into the market;
• Promotion of a deeper transnational integration within the European academic sphere;
• Alignment of university missions with the European Union’s strategic priorities.

The event will discuss key topics for the future of research and innovation in Europe, such as institutional transformation within universities, promotion of inclusive excellence, and the increase of the link between academia and industry. A high-level political dialogue will also take place with representatives from European institutions, including the European Commission and the European Parliament. 

Several rectors and vice-rectors of European university partners will also participate, as well as representatives of science and technology parks, development agencies, and small and medium enterprises connected to innovation.

As one of the main higher education institutions in Portugal, the University of Lisbon actively partakes in European networks of collaboration and innovation. ULisboa’s participation in this conference reinforces its commitment to building a more integrated, competitive, and inclusive European Research Area.

The Unite!Widening initiative, of which ULisboa is part of, aims to deepen scientific excellence and maximise the impact of knowledge through cooperation between universities and partners from different regions, with special focus on countries like Portugal.

Registration: Unite! Widening