In preparation for the launch of the EMERGE project, the University of Limerick in November brought together leaders, academics, work package leads and co-leads worked to develop a shared vision and strategic roadmap for EMERGE.
A Welcome to Inspire Change
The event kicked off with a warm welcome and celebration at The Globe, featuring an inspiring speech by Professor Shane Kilcommins, Interim President and Permanent Provost of UL. The remarks underscored the spirit of EMERGE. “At UL, we deeply value the transformative power of partnerships like this one’ said Professor Kilcommins. ‘By working together, we can make higher education more inclusive, impactful, and meaningful for all.”
A Pan-European Partnership
EMERGE unites universities committed to promoting equality, inclusion, multilingualism and innovation across Europe, including: Democritus University of Thrace (Greece), University of Coruña (Spain), Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences (Norway), Université Bretagne Sud (France), Matej Bel University (Slovakia), Europa-Universität Flensburg (Germany), Université Rennes 2 (France) and Neapolis University Pafos (Cyprus).
Coordinated by UL, EMERGE is one of 14 alliances selected under the 2024 European University Initiative, supported by €14.3 million in funding. With a 48-month timeline, this European University Alliance will focus on governance, community engagement, and fostering collaborative excellence.
Workshop Highlights
Day 1: Strategy and Synergy
Participants delved into institutional management strategies, sharing insights to create a cohesive framework for communication and governance across the Alliance. Workshops clarified committee roles and responsibilities, fostering alignment. The day culminated in a formal dinner at the Pavilion, accompanied by performances by students from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance.
Day 2: Integration and Cultural Connection
The second day centered on operational planning, exploring the role of associate partners and the integration of work packages. Sessions on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) provided a roadmap for measurable success. Attendees were also immersed themselves in Irish culture through performances at the Irish World Academy. The day concluded with networking at the Castletroy Park Hotel.
Day 3: Mapping the Path Forward
The final day emphasised actionable next steps, focusing on mapping activities, protocol synchronisation, and strategies for efficient collaboration. A festive Christmas market and tree lighting ceremony added a festive touch, followed by a dinner hosted by UL’s President at the historic Plassey House.
Outcomes for a Collaborative Future
The workshop successfully achieved its objectives, including:
- Contributing to the creation of a unified communications strategy to enhance Alliance-wide collaboration.
- Defining roles and responsibilities within committees and work packages for clarity and efficiency.
- Establishing KPIs aligned with work package goals to track progress.
- Developing strategies to address challenges and leverage synergies.
- Establishing protocols that prioritise work-life balance while fostering collaboration.
A Vision for 2025 and Beyond
EMERGE is more than an alliance—it is a movement to transform the way universities engage with their communities and regions. Building on the groundwork laid in 2019, the three-day event, and the outcomes of the workshops, allowed the alliance to officially begin its transformative journey on January 1, 2025.
