The long-awaited ERUA Summit 2025 has officially opened today at the University of the Aegean in Mytilene, Lesvos, marking the beginning of a week dedicated to “Navigating the Edges.”
The opening ceremony brought together rectors, academics, administrators, and over a hundred students from across Europe — a powerful reflection of the alliance’s inclusive and collaborative spirit.
Prof. Dimitris Papageorgiou, Rector of the University of the Aegean, warmly welcomed participants to Lesvos, expressing pride in the collective effort behind the Summit’s organization:
“Rectors, vice-rectors, colleagues, administrative staff, and students – everyone has contributed individually and collectively to make this possible. We’re very glad to have you here and hope you enjoy our beautiful town.”
Bruna Vives, ERUA Secretary General, spoke with heartfelt enthusiasm about the Summit’s theme and its deeper meaning:
“Navigating the Edges speaks to our shared identity. The edges are places of creation and renewal – spaces where we can redefine centrality, foster transformation, and affirm the critical role of universities as drivers of social progress, with students at the core.”
She highlighted Lesvos as a fitting symbol for this reflection – an island at the crossroads of civilizations, resilience, and humanistic values:
“Lesvos reminds us that caring for the environment is caring for our communities and shared future. It embodies Europe’s diversity, inclusion, and creative spirit.”
“Local saying states: the Aegean sea separates lands not people. It beautifully captures the spirit of “Navigating the edges”, connecting people and amplifying voices from the ages. I wish us all a truly inspiring Summit full of connections, reflection and fun moments together,” the Secretary General concluded.
Maxime Cacciutolo, ERUA Project Manager, echoed the sense of unity and renewal:
“This summit is a unique opportunity – not only professionally but personally – to strengthen the bonds we’ve built. Lesvos will be a place of gathering and connection.”
The ERUA Student Board took the stage next, celebrating the growing student dimension within the alliance:
“This summit truly shows that ERUA is a student-centered alliance, not just in words but in action.”
They underlined the vital role of local student boards in connecting European ideals with everyday university life, ensuring that ERUA’s values grow from the bottom up:
“The strength of ERUA comes not from institutions, but from the students who bring it to life every day.”
Mikael Bakas, Student Engagement Coordinator at the University of the Aegean, closed the opening session with a powerful reflection on Lesvos as both a geographical and symbolic “edge”:
“Lesvos stands between East and West – a place of migration, resilience, and coexistence. The summit invites us to imagine these edges as spaces of transformation, inclusion, and democracy.”
He also highlighted the University’s sustainability initiatives – from reducing plastic waste to encouraging cycling and public transport – and invited everyone to explore the island’s natural and cultural treasures.
As the Summit week unfolds, participants will engage in strategic sessions, student-led workshops, cultural activities, and creative exchanges, all exploring how universities can shape a more inclusive, sustainable, and human-centered Europe.
The energy, hospitality, and collaborative spirit of Lesvos have already set the tone for an inspiring week ahead.
Welcome to ERUA Summit 2025 – let’s continue navigating the edges together!
