From 25–27 March, ECIU University brought together policymakers, academic leaders, and external stakeholders in Brussels for a series of high-impact events, including a dedicated workshop for external partners, the high-level conference “A Competitive Future with European Universities,” and the ECIU Board meeting. Representatives of Lodz University of Technology were actively present throughout the programme, contributing both to the conference discussions and the Board meeting.
More than 200 participants joined the conference to explore how European University alliances can strengthen Europe’s global competitiveness and drive meaningful societal transformation. The event created a dynamic platform for strategic dialogue with key EU decision-makers, highlighting the growing importance of collaboration across sectors and borders.
As part of the programme, student representative Alicja Zielińska participated as a panelist in the workshop for external stakeholders and took part in the conference discussions. Reflecting on her experience, she said:
“It was a rewarding experience to take part in such a prestigious event and contribute to shaping the future of university collaboration across Europe. The conference provided a valuable platform to explore how strategic partnerships can accelerate innovation and strengthen Europe’s global competitiveness.
Engaging with the ECIU community and external partners—through exchanging ideas and perspectives—highlighted the importance of collaboration, openness, and long-term vision in addressing today’s complex challenges. Hearing directly from representatives of the European Commission was particularly impactful, as their insights placed ongoing initiatives in a broader context and connected them to the EU’s long-term strategic agenda.”
Bringing together these diverse perspectives led to a clear conclusion: European universities are ready to deliver on the competitiveness agenda. However, continued support and sustained investment will be essential to fully unlock their potential.
Alongside the conference, ECIU partners convened for an intensive Board meeting, once again demonstrating the alliance’s strong role in shaping Europe’s future. Together with Manuel Aleixo and Ekaterina Zaharieva from the Cabinet of Commissioner, Board members discussed how ECIU can contribute to the implementation of the European Research Area (ERA) Act and the upcoming European Innovation Act. The discussions highlighted impactful examples of regional innovation ecosystems, societal engagement, and knowledge valorisation across member universities.
The week in Brussels reaffirmed that long-term, challenge-based, cross-border collaboration is key to building a competitive, innovative, and resilient Europe. Łódź was represented by Rector Krzysztof Jóźwik, student Alicja Zielińska, and Barbara Konarzewska, who showed the perspective of the ICT Cluster. The success of the events was made possible thanks to the commitment and collaboration of all ECIU partners, students, EU representatives, and stakeholders, including the active involvement of Lodz University of Technology.
