4EU+: Warsaw hosted Leading the Way- Shaping Future of a Transnational European University

The future of European universities in a changing global landscape: this was the theme at the center of the Rectors Seminar of the 4EU+ Alliance entitled “4EU+ Leading the Way: Shaping the Future of a Transnational European University in a Changing Global Landscape”, held at the University of Warsaw, April 3 and 4.

The University of Milan - which is part of the Alliance composed of eight European universities - took part in the initiative with a delegation led by rector Marina Brambilla and composed of Antonella Baldi, delegate for the 4EU+ European Alliance, Francesca Villata, full professor of International law, Paolo Bianchi, full professor of General surgery, and Vice rector of Digital transition and artificial intelligence Silvana Castano.

Medicine, artificial intelligence, and the future of digital were the focus of speeches by the rectors of the University of Warsaw, the Sorbonne University, the University of Copenhagen, the University of Heidelberg, the University Paris Panthéon-Assas, and Charles University (Czech Republic).

Marina Brambilla, rector of University of Milan, highlighted that the Alliance’s impact extends beyond academia demonstrating how universities can contribute directly to society—through advancement and development of innovation ecosystems. “This is a time when, we cannot hide it, the founding values of Europe no longer seem so taken for granted. In front of the complex scenarios that are emerging, I believe that the educational, scientific and cultural contribution of European universities and our Alliance can be decisive in defending the principles of freedom of science and teaching, freedom of expression” declared Marina Brambilla.

Alojzy Z. Nowak, rector of University of Warsaw, underscored “as in times of deep transformation—shaped by digitalization, geopolitical shifts, and increasing global competition—European universities are more responsible than ever for responding to the expectations of society, policymakers, and the younger generation.”.

“4EU+ is a strong foundation, especially for doctoral candidates whose mobility outside Europe has become restricted”, underscored Vice-President Guillaume Fiquet of Sorbonne University.

Frauke Melchior, rector of Heidelberg University, pointed out “the role of 4EU+ Alliance as a Foundation of European Strength. The 4EU+ Alliance embodies the collective will to integrate research, education, and innovation across borders and that this is the right path toward strengthening mutual understanding, academic freedom, and shared values”.

The meeting consisted of several panels on a number of key issues for the future of European universities, including 4EU+'s Role in advancing democracy, digital medicine and the Europa’s digital future, topics on which Francesca Villata, Paolo Bianchi and Silvana Castano spoke for the University of Milan.