From May 13 to 15, 2025, the city of Ostrava, Czechia, became a hub of innovation, collaboration, and shared purpose as it hosted the latest gathering of the NEOLAiA European Universities Alliance. Organized by the University of Ostrava, the event brought together representatives from across Europe to advance a common vision: building a more inclusive, equitable, and innovative future for higher education.
Over three dynamic days, members of the Governing Board, Steering and Executive Committees, Student and External Advisory Groups, along with regional representatives of the Alliance, engaged in strategic discussions, campus and city tours, and forward-thinking dialogue.
From the University of Salerno, professors Abdelaziz Rhandi, Francesco Donsì, and Bice Della Piana participated in the event, actively contributing to the discussions and shared initiatives of the Alliance.
A key milestone was reached on May 14, when the NEOLAiA Governing Board officially signed the Diversity & Inclusion NEOCharter (D&I NEOCharter) — a visionary policy reaffirming the Alliance’s collective commitment to diversity, gender equality, and inclusion. Each member university will now develop tailored action plans to implement the Charter’s principles in their local contexts.
Beyond the formalities, the atmosphere in Ostrava was one of unity and determination. Participants shared best practices, addressed common challenges, and strengthened inter-university cooperation — demonstrating that NEOLAiA is more than a European project: it is a values-based community.
This was echoed by the Alliance’s leadership. Johan Schnürer (Örebro University) noted, “NEOLAiA is not only about the project, but also about people.” Similarly, Angelika Epple (Bielefeld University) remarked, “It is more than an academic project,” highlighting its broader societal and human impact.
Petr Kopecký (University of Ostrava) emphasized the value of “sharing perspectives, getting inspiration, and establishing cooperation — as opposed to competition — in the academic world.” Nicolás Ruiz Reyes (University of Jaén) called NEOLAiA “an exciting project,” adding, “I’ve always believed in internationalisation and the benefits it brings to our citizens. By participating in European projects, we are building a stronger Europe.”
These reflections brought a human dimension to the strategic conversations, showing that the Alliance is grounded not just in policy, but in shared values and common aspirations.
Looking ahead, the Ostrava meeting marked a pivotal moment for NEOLAiA — a powerful example of how European cooperation can shape a more inclusive, modern, and impactful higher education landscape for students, staff, and communities alike.
