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Introduction

On September 23-24, the Erasmus+ National Office (NEO) in Georgia organized a two-day online training and advisory meeting (TAM) focused on European university alliances. This initiative took place with the joint efforts of Georgia's Higher Education Reform Experts (HEREs), the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Georgia (MOESY) and the European Union Delegation (EUD) and with the support of SPHERE. SPHERE (Experts Supporting Higher Education Reform) aims to enhance the quality of higher education by providing expert advice and support to educational institutions and stakeholders.

During the event, invited expert Kevin Guillaume, Secretary General of Circle U., presented valuable information about the European Universities initiative. He discussed how Georgian universities can participate. It also describes the expected quality standards, monitoring procedures in alliances and the operations of Circle U., which is part of one of the largest, inclusive, research-engaged and interdisciplinary university alliances in Europe. It consists of nine prestigious universities, which are committed to long-term transformative cooperation.

European university alliances play a crucial role in supporting cooperation and innovation in the field of higher education. These alliances facilitate the sharing of resources, knowledge and valuable experiences between member institutions and also enable research collaborations, joint degree programs and academic exchanges. They are designed to improve the quality of education and research, increase student and staff mobility, and internationalize higher education. Alliances focus on creating an inclusive and interdisciplinary environment and therefore aim to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in a globalized world. There are currently 64 alliances in Europe, each promoting international cooperation and contributing to the European Higher Education Area.

Kevin Guillaume has an extensive career in political science and international relations, as well as in higher education. He has held important positions that highlight his expertise in internationalization, mobility, quality assurance and management. Its knowledge, especially in the context of the implementation of European and international policies, determines its important role in supporting the development of higher education in Europe.

Introduction to the European University Initiative

The European University Initiative was created as a response to the rapidly evolving demands of the labor market and global challenges such as climate change and stagnation in European higher education systems. It stems from President Macron's 2017 plan, the main focus of which was the establishment of a network of European universities. The network itself aimed to promote cooperation, innovation and a stronger European identity in higher education.

The initiative promotes the development of university alliances that work together on common long-term strategies, offering student and staff mobility, interdisciplinary teaching and collaborative research. These alliances are not only EU projects, but they are transformative structures designed to ensure sustainable cooperation between institutions, in particular by emphasizing flexibility, inclusiveness and civic engagement.

The initiative is mainly funded by Erasmus+ and other EU programs such as Horizon Europe, and is also financially supported at national and regional level. While the funding model is evolving, discussions continue to ensure long-term sustainability beyond 2027.

As of 2024, 64 alliances involving more than 560 universities have been established in Europe and abroad. These alliances are expected to have a significant impact on higher education, including enhancing the reputation of institutions, improving educational offerings and increasing student and staff mobility. However, governance, funding sustainability and regulatory diversity are ongoing challenges. The aforementioned initiative tries to deal with these difficulties through continuous cooperation and political engagement.

Thus, although the European Universities Initiative has made significant progress, additional time and development is needed for it to fully realize its potential in the transformation of European higher education.

Cooperation with alliances of European universities

European University Alliances have grown significantly since their inception and now include more than 560 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across 35 countries and 2,200 associated partners. Erasmus + The program played an important role in this growth and provided funding to support the Alliance. However, there will be no competition to create new alliances until 2026, giving institutions the opportunity to join or benefit from existing alliances.

The 2024 competition aims to support higher education institutions in achieving their long-term strategic goals by strengthening existing alliances or forming communities of practice. Eligible institutions must have a valid Erasmus Charter and belong to an alliance with at least three institutions from three different countries. Associated partners from third countries not associated with this program can also participate without direct funding.*

The process of joining the existing alliance is not formalized and depends on the alignment with the alliance's strategic goals. Timing is critical as new opportunities may emerge in 2026 and 2027.

*The Erasmus Charter for Higher Education (ECHE) provides a general quality framework for European and international cooperation activities that higher education institutions (HEIs) can implement within the Erasmus+ programme. The award of the ECHE is a necessary prerequisite for all institutions located in the program country and/or wishing to participate in both individual study mobility and cooperation between organizations and institutions. The charter is valid for the entire duration of Erasmus+. The ECHE Annotated Guidelines outline the requirements that an institution must meet to implement the Charter's principles. For more information, the ECHE Monitoring Guide and the ECHE Self-Assessment Tool can be used. Since ECHE is not a mandatory partner for the country's higher education institutions, a quality framework will be created based on institutional agreements signed by all partners.

ECHE will be awarded to institutions located in program countries or third countries associated with the program.

Monitoring and evaluation of European university alliances 

The meeting discussed the importance of Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) to ensure the success of European University Alliances and other EU projects. The focus was on how higher education institutions (HEIs) should adapt to the constant changes brought about by internationalisation, globalization and technological progress. Effective change management is a key factor in the successful implementation of these transitions.

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plays a critical role in assessing the success of these alliances. The MEL approach, specially developed by Circle.U, helps track progress and evaluate the impact of the initiative. It includes both quantitative and qualitative metrics, as well as setting SMART goals, using key performance indicators (KPIs) and objectives and key results (OKRs) to ensure accountability and continuous learning.

The MEL framework allows Circle U. to measure the success of its strategic goals in alignment with the goals of the European Universities Initiative and the European Education Area. By implementing a “culture of evaluation,” Circle U. has the opportunity to better understand its impact and make informed decisions.

Challenges include collecting meaningful, standardized data across institutions, managing survey fatigue, and ensuring the integration of both qualitative and quantitative data into the evaluation process. Despite these difficulties, the MEL framework aims to promote the long-term sustainability and development of alliances.

About Circle U

Circle U. is a European university alliance consisting of nine universities and based on the vision of inclusive, interdisciplinary and sustainable cooperation in the fields of education, research and innovation. The alliance brings together more than 500,000 students, 65,000 employees and 2,500 academic programs, and its goal is to transform higher education based on collaboration, mobility and shared values.

The Alliance actively participates in many projects funded by the European Union, such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe. These initiatives aim to build a new culture of collaboration between academic disciplines and sectors. They emphasize both short-term results using a "sprint" approach and long-term structural changes using a "marathon" approach.

Circle U.'s mission is to create an interdisciplinary and sustainable education system that addresses important societal challenges, including climate change, democracy, global health, and artificial intelligence (AI). Through integrated education, research and innovation, the Alliance hopes to ensure a healthy, peaceful and democratic future for Europe and the world.

The Alliance has made significant progress, including 38 funded projects, more than 20 summer schools, more than 60 academic chairs, the establishment of a network of female founders, and the development of various knowledge hubs and innovation platforms.

In the second phase (2023–2027), Circle U. aims to consolidate its ecosystem and expand joint research and educational activities with a grant of 12.8 million euros from the European Union. Plans include launching new joint academic programs, promoting innovation, and deepening collaboration with associate and global partners.

Alliance governance will be developed to ensure long-term development, which will involve strengthening the roles of the General Assembly, Management Board and Special Support Committees. Circle U. is also preparing to obtain the status of a legal entity, which will take its role beyond the scope of the project consortium and take a stronger position.

Despite successes, challenges include balancing project dynamics with broader alliance goals, managing governance complexities, and effectively engaging external partners.

Despite the successes achieved, Circle U. still faces challenges such as aligning project dynamics with the alliance's broader strategic goals, managing complex governance issues, and ensuring effective engagement of external partners.

Technical Assistance Mission (TAM) – European University Alliances

Introduction

On September 23-24, the National Erasmus+ Office (NEO) in Georgia organized a two-day online Training and Advisory Meeting (TAM) focused on European university alliances. This initiative, a collaborative effort of the Higher Education Reform Experts (HEREs) in Georgia, the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sport of Georgia (MOESY), and the European Union Delegation (EUD), was supported by SPHERE ((Support (for Higher Education Reform Experts) SPHERE aims to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education through the provision of expert advice and support to institutions and stakeholders in the higher education sector.
During the event, visiting expert Kevin Guillaume, Secretary General of Circle.U, provided valuable insights into the European university initiative, discussing how Georgian universities can participate, the expected quality standards, and the monitoring procedures within the alliances. He also outlined the operations of Circle.U, one of the largest and most inclusive, research-intensive, and interdisciplinary university alliances in Europe, which consists of nine flagship universities dedicated to long-term transformational collaboration.
European university alliances play a crucial role in fostering cooperation and innovation within the higher education landscape. These alliances facilitate the sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices among member institutions, promoting joint degree programs, research collaborations, and academic exchanges. They are designed to enhance the quality of education and research, increase student and staff mobility, and contribute to the internationalization of higher education. With a focus on creating inclusive and interdisciplinary environments, these alliances aim to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world. Currently, there are 64 alliances across Europe, each promoting international cooperation and contributing to the European Higher Education Area.
With a strong background in political science and international relations, Kevin Guillaume has an extensive career in higher education, having held significant positions that emphasize internationalization, mobility, quality assurance, and governance. His expertise, coupled with his experience in implementing European and international policy developments, positions him as a key advocate for advancing higher education in the European context.

Introduction to the European University Initiative

The European University Initiative was launched as a response to the rapidly evolving demands of labor markets, global challenges like climate change, and the stagnation in European higher education systems. It stems from President Macron's 2017 vision of creating a network of European universities, aiming to foster collaboration, innovation, and a stronger European identity in higher education.
The initiative encourages the development of university alliances that work together through joint long-term strategies, offering student and staff mobility, interdisciplinary learning, and collaborative research. These alliances are not merely EU projects but transformative structures designed to ensure sustainable cooperation between institutions, emphasizing flexibility, inclusivity, and civic engagement.
The initiative is primarily funded by Erasmus+, alongside other EU programs such as Horizon Europe, and supported by national or regional contributions. Although the funding model is evolving, discussions are ongoing to secure long-term sustainability post-2027.
As of 2024, 64 alliances comprising over 560 universities have been established across Europe and beyond. These alliances are expected to have a significant impact on higher education, including enhanced institutional reputation, improved educational offerings, and increased student and staff mobility. However, governance, funding sustainability, and regulatory diversity remain ongoing challenges that the initiative seeks to address through continuous collaboration and policy engagement.
In conclusion, while the European University Initiative has made substantial progress, further time and development are needed to fully realize its potential in transforming European higher education.
Collaboration with European University Alliances
Since their creation, European University Alliances have expanded significantly, now involving over 560 higher education institutions (HEIs) across 35 countries and 2,200 associated partners. The Erasmus+ program has been the primary driver behind this growth, funding various calls to support the alliances. However, there will be no new alliance calls until 2026, leaving institutions the opportunity to join or benefit from existing alliances.
The 2024 call focuses on supporting HEIs in achieving long-term strategic goals by either helping existing alliances or building a community of practices. Eligible institutions must hold a valid Erasmus Charter and belong to an alliance with at least three institutions from three different countries. Associated partners from third countries not associated with the program can also participate without direct funding.*
The process of joining an existing alliance is not formalized and depends on alignment with an alliance's strategic goals. Timing is critical, with potential new opportunities in 2026 and 2027.
Monitoring and Evaluation for European University Alliances
During the meeting, the importance of monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) was discussed to ensure the success of European University Alliances and other EU projects. It highlights how higher education institutions (HEIs) must adapt to constant change, driven by internationalization, globalization, and technological advancements. Effective change management is key to navigating these transitions.
Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) play a critical role in assessing the success of these alliances. The MEL approach, specifically adopted by Circle.U, helps track progress and evaluate the impacts of the initiatives. It involves using quantitative and qualitative metrics, setting SMART goals, and employing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) to ensure accountability and continuous learning.
The MEL framework enables Circle U. to measure the success of its strategic objectives in alignment with the goals of the European Universities Initiative and the European Education Area. By embedding an "evaluative culture" across the alliance, Circle U. can better understand its impact and drive informed decision-making.
Challenges include collecting meaningful, standardized data across various institutions, handling survey fatigue, and ensuring both qualitative and quantitative data are integrated into the evaluation process. Despite these challenges, the MEL framework aims to foster long-term sustainability and growth for the alliances.

About Circle U.

Circle U. is a European university alliance composed of nine universities sharing a vision for inclusive, interdisciplinary, and sustainable collaboration across education, research, and innovation. The alliance integrates over 500,000 students, 65,000 staff, and 2,500 academic programs, aiming to reshape higher education through cooperation, mobility, and shared values.
The alliance is involved in multiple EU-funded projects, such as Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe. These projects seek to foster a new culture of collaboration across academic disciplines and sectors while emphasizing both short-term outcomes (through a "Sprint" approach) and long-term structural change (the "Marathon" approach).
Circle U.'s mission focuses on creating an interdisciplinary and sustainable educational system that addresses key societal challenges, including climate change, democracy, global health, and artificial intelligence (AI). The alliance aims to keep Europe and the world healthy, peaceful, democratic, and prosperous through integrated education, research, and innovation.
The alliance has achieved significant milestones, including 38 seed-funded projects, 20+ summer schools, 60+ academic chairs, the establishment of a Women Founder Network, and the development of various knowledge hubs and innovation platforms.
In its second phase (2023–2027), Circle U. aims to consolidate its ecosystem and expand its joint research and educational activities, with a total grant of €12.8 million from the EU. Plans include launching new joint academic programs, fostering innovation, and deepening collaboration with associated and global partners.
The alliance's governance will evolve to ensure long-term development, with enhanced roles for the General Assembly, Management Board, and dedicated support committees. Circle U. is also establishing itself as a legal entity, positioning itself beyond just a project consortium.
Despite successes, challenges include balancing project dynamics with the broader alliance goals, managing governance complexities, and engaging external partners effectively.

* The Erasmus Charter for Higher Education (ECHE) provides the general quality framework for European and international cooperation activities an HEI may carry out with Erasmus+. The award of an ECHE is a prerequisite for all HEIs located in a Program Country and willing to participate in learning mobility of individuals and/or cooperation among organizations and institutions under Erasmus+. The Charter is awarded for the full duration of Erasmus+. The ECHE Annotated guidelines outline the requirements your institution must fulfill in order to comply with the Charter principles. Please also refer to the ECHE Monitoring Guide and to the ECHE self-assessment tool for more information. Since the ECHE is not required for Partner Country HEIs, the quality framework will be established through interinstitutional agreements signed by all partners.
ECHE is provided to institutions residing in the program countries or third countries associated with the program.