Representatives from Aurora Universities and the University of Sussex convened in Brussels recently to discuss the strategic role of UK universities in European alliances, ahead of the UK–EU agreement on Erasmus+ participation reached on 16 April 2025.
The meeting brought together Paul Creary (Head of Research and Innovation, UK Mission to the European Union), Robin Banerjee (Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global and Civic Engagement, University of Sussex), Pim de Boer (EU Liaison and Policy Advisor, Aurora Universities) and Ramon Puras (Secretary General, Aurora Universities) to explore a forward-looking approach to UK–EU collaboration in higher education.
Discussions focused on longer-term models of cooperation. Several key priorities emerged from the exchange: ensuring coherence between UK and European strategic objectives, building evidence-based cases for the value of cross-border collaboration, and connecting ecosystems across education, research and innovation to bridge existing funding gaps. Participants also identified the need for more flexible and inclusive models of student and staff mobility, as well as sustained investment in long-term institutional infrastructure to support durable partnerships.
Looking ahead, the focus turns to implementation. Delivering on this momentum will require continued collaboration with key partners, including the British Council. Aurora Universities has indicated its commitment to continuing this work as part of broader efforts to strengthen UK–EU university cooperation.
