Aurora: The European University Alliance

Aurora is an alliance that was created in 2020 and is funded by the European Commission as part of the European Universities Initiative. In May 2022, UPEC became an associate member of the alliance at the biannual meeting held in Innsbruck, Austria.

Aurora
 
The Aurora alliance, comprising nine research-intensive universities and seven academic and nonacademic associate partners in 13 countries, has been leading the way in transforming higher education since its creation in 2020. Its members are committed to positive societal impact by matching academic excellence with societal relevance. The main objective is to equip students with the skills needed for the job market and to develop society, and transform them into entrepreneurs and social innovators capable of solving the major challenges facing our societies.

UPEC, currently an associate member, will become a full member of the next general council, whose term will start in November 2023 for a period of 4 years.  
The alliance's work is structured around 35 working groups divided into 10 thematic programs. Representatives from the entire UPEC community, such as academic and technical staff, as well as students, can participate in these programs.
 

Strategic Priorities

The alliance's vision is reflected through five strategic priorities, which are aligned with UPEC's priority areas:
  • Sustainability and climate change
  • Digital society and global citizenship
  • Health and well-being
  • Cultural diversity and identity
  • Social entrepreneurship and innovation

Actions

The alliance's ambition is reflected through:
  • The implementation of a virtual campus to open doors to all students
  • The development of fluid, efficient mobility practices, and open, accessible study programs
  • The development of students' general academic and personal skills, in addition to subject-specific learning
  • The use of international partnerships to improve the quality of training programs and learning outcomes for all students
  • Responding to societal needs and challenges, and exploring topics beyond traditional academic boundaries
  • The integration of inclusive, student-centered teaching and learning methods
  • Research support to create favorable conditions for collaboration among Aurora alliance researchers
  • The establishment of solid structures to engage with local and regional communities, and the strengthening of engagement and collaboration with universities in Central and Eastern Europe
  • Commitment to sustainable development in education, research, service to society, internal organization and administration, and external partnerships