The University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria recently hosted the inaugural meeting for the second project phase of ERUA, marking the official commencement of the alliance activities spanning the next four years. Taking place on December 11-12, 2023, this gathering brought together representatives from all eight participating universities. Their aim was to delve into the various work packages and outline the primary objectives to be pursued during this period. With over 70 attendees present in Las Palmas and about 30 joining online, this event served as the initial in-person assembly since the project’s launch on November 1, 2023.

In this consolidation step, member institutions are planning to focus on diverse key areas. These encompass the development of innovative learning pathways, the formation of research-focused clusters, the establishment of an ERUA virtual campus, fostering social impact within local communities, cultivating social entrepreneurship, and enhancing student engagement.

Annick Allaigre, Rector of the University of Paris 8, once again emphasized the distinctiveness of ERUA as a versatile university with a broader academic spectrum, centered on human and social sciences, but not solely. She also welcomed the new doors opened to ERUA through the University of Las Palmas, its unique position as an insular university, deeply interconnected with the Atlantic region and holding significant ties with Africa and Latin America. Ms. Allaigre reasserted the importance of this inclusivity within the ERUA community, advocating for an open Europe that transcends geographic boundaries.

All new members are eager to start working on the project and use their expertise to contribute to ERUA in the best possible way. One of the key goals in this new implementation phase will be the creation of an inter-university master’s degree on migration movements with a focus on children and youth.

Photo credit: University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.