ACE²-EU

1.1.              About ACEploration

ACEploration is an initiative under the Applied Programmes and Pedagogy Factory (APP Factory), aimed at exploring unique opportunities for collaboration across education, research, innovation, and service to society. Each mission is hosted by a different member institution of the ACE²-EU alliance and provides an opportunity for participants to engage in knowledge-sharing, and active pedagogical exchange.

View PDF Brochure: Infopack Santarem

1.2.              ACEploration Objectives

The key objectives of the ACEploration missions include:

• Strengthening institutional collaboration within the ACE²-EU alliance.
• Identifying and developing joint academic programs and research initiatives.
• Enhancing mobility opportunities for faculty, researchers, and students.
• Engaging with industry and societal stakeholders to align academic programs with real-world challenges.
• Promoting digital and green transition initiatives through collaborative learning models.

1.3.              Upcoming ACEploration Mission

Table 1- Aceploration Schedule

1.4.              Theme and Subthemes

This event will provide a valuable opportunity to advance our collaborative objectives and explore frameworks for joint educational initiatives under the following overarching thematic area:

The focus of this ACEploration will be the Bioeconomy, particularly in relation to food products — how they are produced, their commonalities, their impact on lifestyle and culture, and the science behind their development. The academic staff we would like to involve includes those working in biotechnology, agriculture, food sciences, lifestyles and health, and culture. An example of this approach is provided by IPS, which has proposed a thematic focus around wine, but this ACEploration is intended to embrace all types of food products within a broader and more inclusive framework.

Table 2- 2^nd ACEploration – Theme and Subthemes

1.5.              Expected outcomes

In this Aceploration, the expected outcomes are:

• Development of joint learning opportunities
• Strengthening of institutional ties and collaboration frameworks within the ACE²-EU alliance.
• Formalized partnerships with external stakeholders for knowledge transfer and professional training opportunities.
• Expansion of student and faculty mobility initiatives.
• Documentation of best practices to enhance future ACEploration missions.

• In addition, a coordination plan has been developed based on the learnings from the Romania mission, and we invite all universities to follow the proposed roadmap to prepare and engage meaningfully in the Portugal edition. Feedback on this plan is welcome and will help us ensure alignment across the Alliance.

1.6.              Proposed ACEploration Coordination Roadmap

To ensure clarity, alignment, and active engagement from all institutions, a coordination plan has been established for the 2^nd ACEploration. This roadmap outlines the key steps each university should follow to fully prepare for the mission in Portugal and to ensure effective collaboration during the face-to-face event.

Table 3- Aceploration – Roadmap

1.7.              Contact Information

For any questions or further details regarding the ACEploration missions, please contact ace2eu@ufv.es

Join us in shaping the future of collaborative education and research across Europe!