On June 6 and 7, Franklin University Switzerland played host to the Hanseatic League of Universities (HLU) conference, an annual gathering that brings together educational leaders from across the globe. The HLU, established in April 2018 by ten university presidents, aims to foster meaningful interactions and engagement among its member institutions. This year’s conference theme, "Sustainable Future in Higher Education," set the stage for an immersive and collaborative exploration of interdisciplinary discussions, knowledge exchange, and collaborative initiatives.
The conference’s primary objective is to prioritize peer-to-peer learning, allowing decision-makers and educational leaders to share their insights and experiences directly. This approach fosters stronger relations between participants and leaders, ensuring a more intimate and valuable experience with ample opportunities for discussion, listening, and socializing in a discreet and focused environment.
The event commenced with a warm welcome in the Student Lounge of the McNeely Center of Ideas & Imagination. President Samuel Martín-Barbero delivered the opening remarks, setting a positive and forward-thinking tone for the conference.
“This annual conference will surely generate a special opportunity of mutual learning and understanding in higher education through new visions and practices in the sustainability realm."
He further elaborated on the approach to sustainability, stating that "sustainability at the institutional level means gradual improvement and adjustment, not disruptive change." These insights underscored the conference's focus on progressive yet steady advancement in integrating sustainability into higher education. His speech was followed by a keynote address from Jean Wu, Director of the Green Office Sustainability Programs, who emphasized the critical role of sustainability in higher education and provided practical strategies for integrating sustainability into university courses.
Following a campus tour and a convivial lunch, attendees engaged in five roundtable discussions, each reflecting the categories of the upcoming WURI (World’s Universities with Real Impact) ranking. These discussions covered topics such as student support and engagement, culture and values, student mobility and openness, crisis management, and entrepreneurial spirit. These sessions allowed participants to delve deep into each theme, sharing best practices and innovative approaches from their respective institutions.
The first day concluded with a networking dinner, providing further opportunities for participants to connect and discuss potential collaborations. The second day featured the highly anticipated announcement of the WURI ranking, recognizing universities for their innovative and impactful contributions to higher education.
READ ABOUT THE WURI RANKING 2024
The HLU conference at Franklin University Switzerland successfully created a platform for different institutions to come together, share their perspectives, and explore collaborative solutions for a sustainable future in higher education. The differences among the universities proved to be a source of strength and innovation, demonstrating that a collective approach can drive significant progress in addressing global educational challenges.
The conference also marked a significant milestone for Franklin University Switzerland with the appointment of President Samuel Martín-Barbero as the new HLU president, a role he will hold until next year’s conference. Under his leadership, HLU will continue to pursue its vision, advancing its mission of fostering innovative and impactful contributions to higher education.
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