ARTEMIS at European High-level Meeting in Brussels

The future of European Universities Initiative was discussed - ARTEMIS was present.
Photo of Prof. Anna K. Batistatou and Kathy Dewitte at the Rectors Meeting

ARTEMIS took part in the European Universities Rectors & Presidents High-Level Meeting in Brussels on 10 June 2026, joining around 150 university leaders and representatives of the European Commission to discuss the future of higher education in Europe.

The alliance was represented by Prof. Anna K. Batistatou, Rector of the University of Ioannina and ARTEMIS Institutional Coordinator, and Kathy Dewitte, President of VIVES University of Applied Sciences.

Shaping the future of European higher education

A key focus of the meeting was the future of the European Universities Initiative and the growing role of university alliances in strengthening European cooperation.

Participants discussed several priority areas, including:

  • Sustainable and predictable funding for alliances
  • Stronger links between education, research, innovation, and societal engagement
  • The impact of artificial intelligence and digital transformation
  • Progress towards a European Degree
  • Expanding international partnerships

During the discussions, Executive Vice-President Roxana Mînzatu highlighted the increasing importance of university alliances and their contribution to Europe’s long-term competitiveness and resilience.

The ARTEMIS perspective

As an active European University alliance, ARTEMIS contributed to the discussions on how cross-border collaboration can support innovation, learning opportunities, and societal development across Europe.

“The strength of European Universities Alliances is becoming increasingly evident, as they contribute to building Europe’s strategic autonomy through deeper transnational cooperation.”
Prof. Anna K. Batistatou
Rector, University of Ioannina and ARTEMIS Institutional Coordinator

 

“European University alliances demonstrate the value of structured cooperation across institutions, creating opportunities for learners and contributing to societal impact across Europe.”
Kathy Dewitte
President, VIVES University of Applied Sciences

Looking ahead

The meeting reaffirmed the important role of European University alliances such as ARTEMIS in building a more connected, innovative, and future-oriented European Higher Education Area.

Read the European Commission press release:
https://education.ec.europa.eu/whats-new/news/150-university-leaders-and-the-european-commission-discuss-the-future-of-higher-education