Together for the European Cross-Border Region on the Upper Rhine
Thanks to the ChallengeEU project, Hochschule Offenburg (Offenburg University of Applied Sciences) played a leading role in bringing together representatives from business, academia, civil society, and different generations from across the Upper Rhine region. In an open and appreciative atmosphere, participants took the time to jointly identify key issues – particularly in the context of reimagining tourism. The aim of the activities undertaken by the members of the ChallengeEU alliance is to closely link research and innovation with regional stakeholders and, as a first step in a creative process, to collaboratively identify regional challenges. These identified challenges are then categorized into key thematic areas: Health & Wellbeing, Smart Digitalisation, and Sustainable Development. The ideas and solutions developed are subsequently integrated into further research and innovation activities to create sustainable and practical outcomes for the region. Students benefit especially from this European network: they have the opportunity to connect internationally and collaborate on innovative solutions. In addition to exciting projects and win-win situations for both regional businesses and students, valuable partnerships and friendships are also formed across national borders. Together, we are committed to a strong, innovative Europe and a sustainable future for the Upper Rhine region. The first workshop in the ChallengeEU Meetup Mission series was made possible thanks to the collaboration with Black Forest Innovation, an associate partner of the alliance, who hosted the participants at their premises.
ChallengeEU Alliance Participates in High-Level Brussels Meeting on the Future of European Universities
The ChallengeEU Alliance proudly took part in the high-level event “Shaping the Future: European Universities Alliances for a Competitive Europe”, held this week in Brussels. The event brought together representatives from all 65 European University Alliances, along with Seal of Excellence holders, Members of the European Parliament, national and regional EU authorities, leading higher education stakeholders, student associations, and private-sector innovators. In a closed session dedicated to university leadership, the ChallengeEU Alliance was represented by Prof. Anne Najderek, Managing Director of ChallengeEU, and Prof. Stephan Trahasch, Rector of Hochschule Offenburg. The meeting serves as a platform to reflect on the progress of the European Universities Initiative, identify ongoing challenges, and explore strategies for its long-term success. Discussions also focus on the role of university alliances in strengthening Europe’s sustainable growth, global competitiveness, democratic resilience, and social justice. Participation in this forum is a valuable opportunity for ChallengeEU to exchange experiences, gain insights, and build lasting partnerships with other European alliances.
