DIVERSE was represented at the annual European Universities Rectors’ Meeting in Brussels on 10 June 2026 by Rector Mislav Balković of Algebra Bernays University and Victorine de Graaf, the Executive Board member of Windesheim University of Applied Sciences.

The meeting brought together around 150 Rectors and Presidents representing 65 European Universities alliances and eight Seal of Excellence alliances. The event provided an important platform for discussing the future of the European Universities Initiative and the contribution of university alliances to Europe’s competitiveness, innovation capacity and skills agenda.

As education continues to play a central role in the European Union’s strategic priorities, discussions focused on the future direction of the European Universities Initiative, the role of alliances in strengthening Europe’s global competitiveness, and opportunities for deeper international cooperation in higher education. Particular attention was given to the development of the European Degree Label, an initiative designed to enhance the quality, transparency and recognition of joint European degree programmes.

The meeting also explored how European Universities alliances contribute to the completion of the European Education Area and support the development of the Union of Skills. Participants exchanged views on attracting and retaining talent in Europe, modernising higher education systems, and advancing the free circulation of knowledge and innovation across Europe.

By participating in these discussions, DIVERSE continues to contribute to shaping the future of European higher education and to advancing a more connected, innovative and inclusive European knowledge ecosystem. As an alliance committed to diversity, inclusion and excellence in higher education, DIVERSE welcomes the continued dialogue on how European Universities can strengthen their impact on learners, institutions and society.