Universities call for closer ties with politicians

More dialogue between universities and European leaders is needed to address the continent’s problems, the European University Association has said.

The EUA has urged politicians to do more to promote education, research and innovation ahead of European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker’s State of the Union address tomorrow. It said in a statement on 7 September that universities have an important part to play in tackling societal challenges, but called for “systemic dialogue” between universities and decision makers.

“Universities, with the help from governments and other stakeholders, have the capacity to adapt efficiently to quickly changing circumstances and challenges,” the statement said. “In this way, they can contribute to a number of topics, reflecting their wide range of activities, from regional development to science and academic diplomacy.”