Latest News – ACE2-EU European University

Day 3 – Learning Beyond the Classroom: Outdoor Adventure and Mountain Safety

adminucb — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:18:51 +0000

The third day of the Flavour School courses, Leisure Sports Activities: From Adventure to Responsibility in Promoting and Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle and Active Aging, brought participants to the spectacular mountain landscape of Rânca, Gorj for a day dedicated to outdoor activities, resilience, and experiential learning.

Although the weather was less than ideal, the rain did not stop participants from fully engaging in the planned programme. Equipped with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, they took part in a series of practical activities, including hiking, the zip line, and the ropes course, discovering how outdoor sports contribute to physical fitness, mental well-being, and personal confidence.

A key highlight of the day was the educational session delivered by the Salvamont Gorj rescue team. Participants gained valuable knowledge about mountain safety, risk prevention, first aid for minor injuries, and emergency response, learning essential skills that can make outdoor activities both safer and more enjoyable.

The day concluded with a reflection session, where participants shared their experiences and discussed the importance of resilience, teamwork, and responsible behaviour in outdoor environments.

Day 3 demonstrated that meaningful learning is not limited by weather conditions. On the contrary, overcoming challenges together strengthened participants’ confidence, cooperation, and appreciation for nature, while reinforcing the central message of both courses: an active lifestyle, combined with responsibility and mutual support, is the foundation of healthier individuals and stronger communities.

Santarém Polytechnic University hosts “Train the Trainers – Change Maker Ambassador Programme” from ACE2-EU European University

adminucb — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:46:47 +0000

Yesterday, Santarém Polytechnic University launched the “Train the Trainers – Change Maker Ambassador Programme,” which is taking place at the Resource Centre of the Santarém Polytechnic University’s School of Education, bringing together participants from different institutions within the scope of the ACE2-EU European University.

The first day was marked by a welcome session and an introduction to the program, followed by an integration activity that promoted networking among participants and encouraged the sharing of experiences. During the morning, a workshop dedicated to the Theory of Change was also held, addressing methodologies for promoting social change and impact.

In the afternoon, participants completed a self-assessment exercise and took part in a session dedicated to systems thinking and problem-solving, ending the day with a collaborative work session to plan the upcoming editions of the Changemaker Ambassador programme.

#IPSantarém #ACE2EU #HigherEducation #Internationalization

Constantin Brâncuși University Hosts FLAVOUR SCHOOL within the ACE²-EU European University Alliance

adminucb — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:09:35 +0000

Târgu Jiu, Romania, 6 July 2026 – Constantin Brâncuși University of Târgu Jiu is pleased to host the FLAVOUR SCHOOL – Active Aging: Pathways to Health and Well-Being, an international educational programme taking place from 6 to 10 July 2026 under the umbrella of the ACE²-EU – Applied, Connected, Entrepreneurial and Engaged European University Alliance.

The five-day programme brings together students, academic staff, and experts from partner universities across Europe to explore innovative approaches to active aging, healthy lifestyles, intercultural learning, and community engagement. By combining academic lectures, practical workshops, outdoor activities, and collaborative learning experiences, the FLAVOUR SCHOOL promotes a holistic understanding of well-being while encouraging intercultural dialogue and international cooperation.

Participants will engage in a diverse programme covering topics such as effective communication in active aging, nutrition and healthy lifestyles, Tai Chi and mind-body practices, intercultural learning, and mental well-being. The programme also includes field visits, collaborative group projects, and cultural activities designed to strengthen teamwork and foster meaningful connections among participants from different cultural backgrounds.

The academic programme is delivered by an international team of lecturers and specialists, including experts from Constantin Brâncuși University of Târgu Jiu, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (Spain), and professionals with extensive experience in Erasmus+, intercultural education, and health promotion. Their multidisciplinary expertise provides participants with valuable perspectives on promoting active and healthy aging within European communities.

Beyond its academic dimension, FLAVOUR SCHOOL reflects the mission of the ACE²-EU Alliance to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, inclusion, and lifelong learning through international collaboration. By bringing together participants from different countries and disciplines, the programme creates an inspiring environment for exchanging ideas, developing practical skills, and building long-term partnerships that extend beyond the classroom.

Flower Meadows in Enhancing Environmental Biodiversity and Safety Begins at the Medical University of Gdańsk

adminucb — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:06:12 +0000

Today, the Medical University of Gdańsk welcomed participants to the on-site phase of the Flower Meadows in Enhancing Environmental Biodiversity and Safety course, an Applied Blended Challenge (ABC) Programme delivered within the ACE²-EU Alliance.

From 6–10 July 2026, students from partner universities across Europe will take part in an intensive programme combining workshops, field activities, laboratory classes and interdisciplinary discussions focused on biodiversity, urban sustainability and human well-being.

The course explores the role of flower meadows in urban environments and their contribution to environmental health, climate resilience and psychological well-being. Participants will investigate the relationships between plants, soil ecosystems, biodiversity and public health, while developing practical solutions to contemporary urban challenges.

Hosted by the Medical University of Gdańsk as the lead institution, the programme brings together experts from Poland, Lithuania and Austria. Academic sessions are led by Anna Hering, PhD, alongside lecturers from the Medical University of Gdańsk, LIK (Lithuania) and Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (Austria).

One of the highlights of the programme is the Psychology of Nature session, which explores the impact of green spaces on mental health and introduces participants to mindfulness practices in natural settings.

The course also benefits from the involvement of external stakeholders, including primary schools and representatives of the housing management sector, enabling students to address real-world challenges through collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches.

Upon successful completion, participants will receive 3 ECTS credits and a certificate of attendance.

We are delighted to welcome students to Gdańsk and wish them an inspiring week of learning, discovery and international collaboration.

Shaping Europe’s Digital Future: KCTW #4 Launches in Târgu Jiu

adminucb — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:02:48 +0000

Târgu Jiu, Romania – 6–8 July 2026

Constantin Brâncuși University (UCB) is hosting the 4th Knowledge Creation Team Workshop (KCTW), bringing together researchers from the ACE²-EU Alliance universities to develop innovative solutions for Cybersecurity & Digital Sovereignty.

Setting the Stage

The workshop opened with a warm welcome from Rector Prof. Luminița Popescu, followed by keynote speeches from Mircea Șcheau (Cyber Security Alliance – Romanian Chapter) and Alexandru Stoica from NCC-RO.

In his keynote, Mircea Șcheau set the tone:

“No solution should be considered infallible. We must eliminate elements of instability so that scenario analysis can deliver results as close to reality as possible.”

Researchers then presented their project ideas, pitching innovative solutions to pressing cybersecurity challenges. The day concluded with team matching and brainstorming.

A Collaborative Journey Day 1 focused on getting to know the participants—their backgrounds, expertise, and how their skills can drive collaborative research to address Europe’s future needs. With 20 participants, including 4 external stakeholders, the workshop began with presentations and networking.

Over the three days, attendees will:

Share knowledge and refine project concepts
Develop comprehensive proposals
Create work packages and posters
Present ideas for peer feedback

The day ended with an inspiring city tour of Târgu Jiu, offering researchers a taste of Romanian culture and history.

Voices from the Workshop

“We have a smart younger generation. We must guide them to protect the future by deeply understanding our greatest need: cybersecurity. It begins with action—going out, speaking up, and ensuring people grasp its reality. There is no alternative but to act.” — Robert Maxwell, Researcher, University Francisco de Vitoria, Spain

The momentum generated in Târgu Jiu will continue beyond the workshop. In the coming days, participants will refine their project ideas, laying the foundation for future ACE²-EU projects. This process strengthens collaboration across the Alliance and expands international opportunities for students, researchers, and stakeholders in cybersecurity.

9th ACEploration Mission: Academic Staff Co-Create Future Learning Opportunities at THI

Franziska — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 08:23:59 +0000

On 1–2 July 2026, Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) hosted the 9th ACEploration Mission, bringing together academic staff from across the ACE²-EU Alliance for two days of intensive collaboration and co-creation.

Held under the overarching theme “Towards Circular Intelligence: Shaping the Future for Quality of Life”, the event aimed to transform innovative research ideas into joint international learning opportunities. Through collaborative workshops and interdisciplinary discussions, participants worked on developing transnational educational formats that connect teaching, research, innovation, and societal challenges.

The ACEploration Mission provided a platform for professors from the partner universities to present their project ideas before refining them together with international colleagues. The collaborative sessions focused on identifying synergies, strengthening partnerships, and designing innovative educational formats such as Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs), MOOCs, Impactathons, and other joint learning opportunities.

The proposed projects addressed some of today’s most pressing challenges across three thematic areas:

Technology & Artificial Intelligence
Participants explored innovative teaching concepts on applied reinforcement learning in artificial intelligence as well as digital imaging technologies in medical laboratory science, reflecting the growing importance of AI-driven solutions in higher education and industry.

Sustainability & Management
Several project ideas focused on sustainable product lifecycles and new management approaches in the emerging era of “Metaprofit”, addressing how organisations can balance economic success with environmental and societal responsibility.

Society & Innovation
Further discussions centred on the role of artificial intelligence in society and the social dimension of sustainable construction, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to future societal challenges.

Throughout the two-day event, participants exchanged expertise, refined their concepts, and established new international partnerships. By combining diverse academic perspectives, the ACEploration Mission demonstrated how collaborative programme design can generate innovative learning experiences that respond directly to Europe’s digital, green, and societal transitions.

The work does not end with the on-site meeting in Ingolstadt. Participants will continue developing their project ideas over the coming weeks, with a follow-up review meeting scheduled for 24 July 2026. The resulting concepts will form the basis for future ACE²-EU educational initiatives, further strengthening cooperation and creating new international learning opportunities for students and staff across the Alliance.

Six Startups to Advance with ARIES Incubator: The 2026 Cohort of Entrepreneurship Academy Innovation and Entrepreneurship

adminucb — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:02:25 +0000

On 25 June 2026, as we officially concluded the 1st Blended Edition of the Entrepreneurship Network Workshop, organised by the Entrepreneurship Academy of the ARIES Incubator, we had the pleasure to announce the startup ideas and innovation that will move forward with ARIES Incubator.

This first attempt of our Entrepreneurship Network Workshop successfully brought together 36 participants from ACE²-EU Alliance institutions for a dynamic programme of keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and networking. The event marked a milestone in blending entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration across the alliance, providing participants with practical tools, inspiration, and connections to advance their entrepreneurial journeys.

While 10 startup ideas were initially presented, six teams fulfilled the final requirements and showed their commitment to continued participation. These 6 startups now form the 2026 cohort of the ARIES Incubator and will receive tailored support to turn their ideas into impact.

The 2026 ARIES Incubator Cohort: Meet the Startups

Below are the 6 startup teams selected to move forward with the ARIES Incubator. Each team demonstrated innovation, feasibility, and a strong commitment to developing their ideas within the ACE²-EU ecosystem.

LE TREN D’OR by Unax Miranda García (CEO), Fernando Ceberio Sainz de Rozas, Raúl Miranda Miguel, Nerea García Puch – all from University Francisco de Vitoria UFV, Spain. Le Tren D’Or transforms the Madrid–Paris rail journey into a luxury travel experience combining fine dining, culture, and entertainment. Their focus is on Experiential Tourism Industry, with alignment to Sustainable Science & Innovations ARC.

Menova Lab by Barbara Cano (Founder, University Francisco de Vitoria UFV, Spain). Menova transforms menstrual blood into an ethical, traceable stem cell source for research through an integrated collection, tracking, and sample-processing platform. Menova Lab’s focus is on BioTech Industry with the alignment to both Digital Transformation and Health & Wellbeing ARCs.

Hacking Bridge by Team Members: Sandra Milan (Co-founder, University Francisco de Vitoria UFV, Spain), Maria Fernandez (Co-founder, University Francisco de Vitoria UFV, Spain), Brahim Moufakir (Lietuvos inžinerijos kolegija HEI, Lithuania Country Ambassador), André Afonso Lourenço (Instituto Politécnico de Santarém, Portugal Country Ambassador). Hacking Bridge connects NGOs, students, and companies through structured social-impact hackathons that turn real-world challenges into validated, implementation-ready solutions. They are a social innovation in alignment with both Sustainable Science & Innovations and Health & Wellbeing ARCs.

Rolesn.app by Marian Valeriu Bican (Cofounder, University Constantin Brâncusi Târgu – Roménia). Rolens helps service-based businesses streamline bookings and grow their client base with customisable online appointment scheduling pages. With the industry being on Software as a Service (SaaS), the startup solution is in alignment with Digital Transformation ARC.

MATCHIQ by Pouriya Najafi-sarpiri (Founder, Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, Austria). MatchIQ uses AI, psychological assessments, and behavioral profiling to match entrepreneurs with compatible co-founders based on skills, personality, and shared vision. MATCHIQ has the industry focus in HR Tech with alignment to both Digital Transformation and Health & Wellbeing ARCs.

Studdy by Tohidul Islam Tareq (Founder, Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt, Germany). AI Study Companion that helps students plan, study, stay accountable, feel motivated and prepared for careers. The industry focus is being EdTech, the Studdy will contribute to the advancement of Digital Transformation and Health & Wellbeing in alignment with both ARCs.

Disclaimer: The startups presented above are not listed in any particular order.

The six selected startups will receive a needs-based and inclusive support model with ACE²-EU Alliance partners to collaboratively identify tailored support opportunities for each team , including:

Mentorship and Expert Guidance – Access to experienced mentors and industry experts.
Networking Opportunities – Introductions to mentors, ecosystem actors, and potential collaborators across the alliance.
Institutional Resources – Access to facilities, labs, and incubation environments at partner universities.
Collaboration Platforms – Opportunities to connect with peers, researchers, and innovators across the ACE²-EU network.

This approach ensures that every participating startup is considered for further development opportunities, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship without borders.

In addition to ongoing support, these startups will gain future visibility through:

Annual Output Catalogue – Featured in the 1st Catalogue (D3.3)
Social Media Spotlights – Highlighted across ACE²-EU channels (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook)
Website Features – Profiled in ACE²-EU articles and updates

Looking Ahead: Building a Future of Innovation

The 1st Blended Edition of the Entrepreneurship Network Workshop was just the beginning. With valuable lessons learned and a strong cohort of startups moving forward, the ARIES Incubator is committed to refining its approach, fostering growth, and turning ideas into impact.

As we continue to strengthen our community, we look forward to supporting students, researchers, and innovators in their entrepreneurial journeys, both professionally and personally. Together, we are building a future where innovation thrives, and entrepreneurship knows no borders.

Stay tuned for updates on the 2026 cohort’s progress and upcoming opportunities with the ARIES Incubator!

Voices of Multiculturalism: A New Campaign Highlighting Our European Community

adminucb — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 10:15:12 +0000

Today we proudly launch “Voices of Multiculturalism” – a campaign that celebrates the people, stories, and shared experiences that shape the ACE²-EU Alliance. Across our universities, students and staff bring together different cultures, ideas, and creative energies. At the Kaleidoscope Culture Festival, this diversity came alive: a vibrant mosaic of perspectives, collaboration, and human connection. These moments – genuine, unscripted, and full of inspiration – are the heart of our new campaign.

Through a series of videos and stories, “Voices of Multiculturalism” highlights:

how intercultural encounters spark creativity and belonging;
why collaboration strengthens our Alliance;
and how students shape the future of learning through participation, curiosity, and shared purpose.

From behind-the-scenes reflections to personal testimonies, the campaign reveals what makes ACE²-EU special: people who meet across borders, learn from one another, and build a community that is truly European.

As we share the first stories – from students discovering new cultures, to partners speaking about the value of working together – we invite you to listen, connect, and join the journey.

This is what multiculturalism looks like.
This is what collaboration feels like.
This is ACE²-EU.

The campaign begins now – and we can’t wait to amplify more voices from across our Alliance. Follow the campaign on the Alliance’s social media channels:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570328464114

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ace2eu/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ace2eu/

Videos:

ACE-SCHOLAR Workshop #1 Concludes with Pitches, Peer Learning, and a Vision for Ethical Research

adminucb — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:23:06 +0000

Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS), 18th June 2026 – The ACE-SCHOLAR Workshop #1 reached its climactic finale today, as participants presented their co-created research pitches, received peer feedback, and reflected on four days of intensive learning, collaboration, and ethical exploration. Hosted by CUAS as part of the ACE²-EU Alliance, this workshop has not only strengthened researcher capacity but also fostered a network of ethical, interdisciplinary scholars ready to tackle global challenges.

Day 4: Pitches, Discussions, and Closing Reflections

The final day began with teams putting the finishing touches on their pitches, which combined participatory research methods, ethical frameworks, and innovative study designs. The Pitch and Discussion Session was a showcase of creativity and rigor, with each team presenting their research aims, target groups, and methodologies to an engaged audience of peers and facilitators.

The peer feedback sessions were a highlight, with participants offering constructive, interdisciplinary insights that enriched each project. The diversity of perspectives—from Latvian Academy of Culture to Medical University of Gdansk—demonstrated the power of the ACE²-EU Alliance in driving innovative, ethical research.

Reflection and Closing: A Workshop to Remember

The day concluded with a reflection session, where participants shared their key takeaways, personal growth, and commitments to applying ethical co-creation in their future work. The closing remarks emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement, research integrity, and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex societal issues.

Here are some of the testimonials we received from our participants,

“I really loved the feeling that Europe is getting smaller inside those rooms, because we know each other now, and I think that’s the purpose of these actions.” – Peter Shubert Researcher at CUAS, Austria

“We’ve had similar experiences before, but never in such a serious, focused way. Coming from completely different areas yet finding common topics to explore was fascinating. Broadening our perspectives on ethical dilemmas was also very valuable to me.” – Magda Stoltmann, Student at MUG, Poland

“First of all, well done, and thank you for organizing this. I’ve really enjoyed these days—I’ve learned a lot, and most importantly, I’ve created a new network. I hope we’ll cooperate in the future, wherever we are. You’ve delved deep into ethics and participatory research, and in such a short time, you’ve moved us forward on many things. And you always take a practical approach.” Mentor Shala, Student at UGD, North Macedonia

What’s Next for ACE-SCHOLAR?

While Workshop #1 may be over, the journey of capacity building, co-creation, and ethical research continues. Participants will take their newfound knowledge, networks, and inspiration back to their home institutions, where they will apply participatory methods, ethical frameworks, and interdisciplinary approaches to their work.

A huge thank you to all participants, facilitators, and the CUAS team for making this workshop a resounding success. Special recognition goes to all our teachers, organization and internal support teams for their time and support, and to Abenteur Affenberg for the memorable Day 1 excursion.

Stay tuned for future ACE-SCHOLAR workshops and initiatives—this is just the beginning!

MUG launches the ACE²-EU Alumni Club to strengthen student mobility and peer-to-peer exchange

adminucb — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:08:35 +0000

Following the first ACE²-EU Alumni Club meeting held at Carinthia University of Applied Sciences (CUAS) on 11st June 2026, the initiative was officially introduced at the Medical University of Gdańsk on 23rd June. The MUG kick-off created a new space for students to share mobility experiences, exchange practical advice, and inspire their peers to take part in future international opportunities within the Alliance.

The CUAS meeting, organised in the Study Lounge at Campus Villach, focused on building belonging through international experiences, cultural diversity, and student-led engagement. As an alumni networking initiative, it empowered former mobility participants to act as ACE ambassadors by sharing their international travel experiences, cultural insights, and social impact perspectives with future students.

At MUG, the kick-off meeting took place at the University Dental Centre, in Lecture Room No. 1. The event gathered strong interest from the student community, with nearly 20 students registering to participate. The meeting brought together students who had already taken part in ACE²-EU mobility activities and those interested in joining future mobility programmes.

The central part of the event was dedicated to student presentations, during which mobility alumni shared their experiences from visits to North Macedonia, Portugal, Latvia, and Spain. The presentations offered a first-hand perspective on what international mobility within ACE²-EU looks like in practice — from choosing a destination and preparing for departure, to taking part in academic activities, navigating organisational matters, and experiencing everyday life in a different cultural and university environment.

Each presentation opened the floor for questions and discussion, allowing participants to explore the practical aspects of mobility in a direct and informal way. Students asked about academic expectations, travel preparations, accommodation, language and cultural adaptation, as well as the personal and professional benefits of studying and collaborating in an international setting.

The meeting quickly developed into an open exchange of experiences. Students who had already completed mobility activities offered useful tips, honest reflections, and encouragement to those considering their first international opportunity within the Alliance. This peer-to-peer format proved particularly valuable, as it allowed future participants to receive practical guidance from colleagues who had recently gone through the same process.

The launch of the ACE²-EU Alumni Club at MUG marks the next step in developing the initiative across the Alliance. Building on the CUAS experience, the MUG kick-off showed how local alumni communities can support students, promote mobility opportunities, and strengthen the sense of belonging to the wider ACE²-EU academic community.

The positive atmosphere of the meeting confirmed the need for such a space. The discussions showed that student experience can play an important role in promoting mobility, reducing uncertainty, and encouraging wider participation in ACE²-EU opportunities.

The initiative is intended to grow beyond its local beginnings and gradually develop into an Alliance-wide platform. Starting with the first meetings at CUAS and MUG, the ACE²-EU Alumni Club aims to build a broader network of mobility alumni who can support future participants, strengthen peer-to-peer exchange, and contribute to the Alliance’s global outreach.