"EMERGE is designed to challenge the idea that excellence only lives at the core," says Professor Shane Kilcommin, Acting President at the University of Limerick.
EMERGE (Empowering the Margins of Europe through Regional and Global Engagement) brings the University of Inland Norway (INN) together with eight partners from peripheral Europe, committed to building a more connected and inclusive European future through education.
European values in future education
"We are living in a time when collaboration is no longer optional. It is essential. And universities must lead by example," states Kilcommin.
The University of Limerick is the coordinating institution of the Alliance and hosted the launch. It inlcluded a keynote address, the signing of the EMERGE Charter of Common Values, music and dance performances by students, and a panel discussion on the future of European higher education.
In 10 years from now, I hope that we will be recognised for being universities that have created safe spaces for students.
Stine Grønvold, Pro-Rector for Education
INN's Pro-Rector for Education Stine Grønvold acknowledges that values central to the European identity are under pressure. At the panel discussion, she offered her insights on what democracy means in higher education.
"We are seeing increasing pressure on our democratic values, and part of building resilient societies is the ability to see and listen to others. That means we need to stick our heads out, engage in discussions, and explore how our perceptions are understood by those who see the world differently from us," says Grønvold.
It's important that our students learn some methods to make sure that all voices are heard.
Stine Grønvold, Pro-Rector for Education
University alliances like EMERGE are part of the European Universities initiative, which aims to increase the international competitiveness of European higher education institutions and to promote European values and identity.
Aiming to impact our communities
Inclusion and Equality, Academic Excellence and Innovation, Sustainability and Responsibility, Collaboration and Partnership, Ethical and Inclusive Digital Approach, Societal Impact as the First Mission, and Commitment to Continous Improvement.
Institutional Coordinator Bente Gaalaas Rønningen, Pro-Rector for Education Stine Grønvold and SELL Project Manager Irene Thorsplass were the INN representatives at the launch in Limerick.
Photo: Arthur Ellis
The Charter of Common Values was signed by all nine partners.
Photo: Arthur Ellis
Students were central to the event, contributing with musical and dance performances as well as filling the role as Master of Ceremonies.
Photo: Arthur Ellis
The representative leaders of all nine partner institutions.
Photo: Arthur Ellis
The launch included a student-lead panel discussion with representatives from each partner institution.
Photo: Arthur Ellis
The EMERGE Institutional Coordinator at INN, Bente Gaalaas Rønningen, says the following about the launch:
"It has been absolutely wonderful to meet everyone here in Limerick. Although many have been involved in the project for several years, new people have also joined, so establishing good connections through meeting in person can never be underestimated. We have had productive and constructive meetings in the various committees and teams we will be working in, and I look forward to getting started on all the work that lies ahead of us."
In the time ahead, work will continue across the member institutions through various work packages to establish joint educational offerings, connect research communities, increase mobility among students and staff, and develop partnerships with regional and global actors.
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Read more:
- What is EMERGE?
- EMERGE official website
- It is crucial for Europe to stand united – including in higher education
- European Universitites initiative
Contact information:
- bente.gaalaas.ronningen@inn.no
- Phone
- +47 62 51 76 00
- stine.gronvold@inn.no
- Phone
- +47 62 43 00 73