What does it mean for your University and/or for you to be part of the Coimbra Group?
Coimbra Group – where collaboration meets friendship.
Membership in the Coimbra Group offers a platform for cooperation, knowledge exchange and growth, fostering excellence in research, teaching, higher education management and learning within a European and global context. This membership also leads to the expansion of professional networks and enhances the international visibility of member institutions, creating opportunities for global partnerships, academic exchanges and collaborative initiatives.
Working groups are places of open and intensive discussions of key aspects and basic principles of the work of higher education professionals from multiple fields.
The Coimbra Group is actively engaged in advocacy and policy development at European and international levels, representing the interests of its members and contributing to the development of higher education and research policies, thus providing incredible value and a multitude of benefits at an institutional level.
On a more personal level, it is important to note that friendships within the Coimbra Group often emerge through various forms of collaboration and interaction. As members of this prestigious network of universities, individuals have the opportunity to engage in joint research projects, academic exchange programs and various collaborative initiatives. These shared experiences provide a basis for building connections and friendships across borders with colleagues from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Therefore, the Coimbra Group goes beyond mere academic collaboration; it serves as a foundation for genuine friendships based on mutual respect, shared experiences and a common commitment to academic excellence and international cooperation.
What’s your favourite memory/experience?
Identifying a single, defining memory is a challenging task. I will indicate a couple of them, please feel free to choose the most adequate for your purposes 🙂
- The collective effort in publishing a position paper or similar document within a working group, drawing on mutual knowledge and expertise and seeing it acknowledged and considered by policy makers, is truly gratifying.
- Furthermore, participating in events such as the 3-Minutes-Thesis competition is a source of pride and joy. A particularly significant moment is the University of Graz’s victory in the 3MT in 2024.
- In addition to academic achievements, the fond memories of social gatherings on a network level, including various festivities and joint dinners in charming cities and at impressive universities, contribute to a rich experience within the Coimbra Group.
- Exuberant dancing (by at least half the participants) on an informal dance floor during the gala dinner at the annual conference in Krakow and Turku.
How can the Coimbra Group most effectively shape the future of higher education and research in your opinion?
The Coimbra Group has the potential to deeply influence the future of higher education and research by employing a combination of collaborative initiatives, advocacy and innovation as well as by combining the expertise, resources and collective influence of its member institutions. Here are some key areas of impact:
- In comparison to European University Alliances: Whereas the European Alliances have to deliver a predetermined number of activities to justify their European funding, associations like the CG may provide a less output-driven platform for reflecting current practices and policies in higher education. The CG could function as a think tank for new approaches and unconventional ideas in further developing the European higher education area.
- Collaborative Research: By facilitating joint research projects and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among member institutions, the CG can contribute to advancing knowledge and innovation while addressing complex global challenges.
- Policy Advocacy: The group can advocate for policies that uphold academic freedom, encourage international cooperation and recognize the value of research-led education. This advocacy can influence higher education and research policies at regional, national, and international levels.
- Mobility Programs: Promoting and enhancing student and staff mobility programs within member universities can facilitate the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and best practices. This enriches the academic experience and nurtures a sense of global citizenship among students and researchers.
- Educational Innovation: The CG can lead initiatives to promote innovative teaching methods, digital learning and the integration of research into educational programs, ensuring that member institutions are at the forefront of educational excellence.
How would you describe the Coimbra Group in one word?
If we could invent a new word, we would use ”friendaboration”. The meaning is: close, collaborative relationships developed through shared endeavors and dedicated efforts. Another word-composition is Coimbragroovy 😉
If you are looking for a more standard word: Impactful, Enrichment, Beneficial
Mediha Ohranović, International Cooperation and Staff Mobility, University of Graz