Stuttgart, Germany – November 6, 2024
The 7th meeting of the EU4Dual Rectors’ Council marked another significant step in our collective journey to advance dual education across Europe. As part of the European Universities Initiative, this meeting provided a platform for discussion, decision-making, and strategic alignment within our alliance.
The council began welcoming Mr. Stephen Vella as a new member, succeeding Prof. Dr. Joachim James Calleja from MCAST. Updates were provided on the ongoing appointment process for the Secretary General position, as well as recent developments in the alliance’s activities and organizational structure.
The council discussed key policy matters and approved the EU4DUAL value statement, and the Alliance sustainability strategy, aligning our shared values and ensuring environmental, social and financial integrity within the alliance.
The meeting shifted focus to advancing the alliance’s academic initiatives. Updates were presented on the progress of the joint dual master’s (JDM) programs, and the council approved the initiation of the accreditation process for the JDM in Digital and Sustainable Manufacturing Engineering. Additionally, updates were shared on the joint industrial Ph.D. program and the EU4Dual mobility program, both of which play central roles in enhancing cross-institutional collaboration and facilitating student mobility.
The council reviewed the alliance’s strategic priorities, placing particular emphasis on internationalization, and approved an open call to welcome up to five new associated and collaborating partners. This initiative aims to expand our network and strengthen our global reach.
The council engaged in an in-depth discussion on legal status options for the alliance, exploring which structure would best align with its strategic goals, governance requirements, and long-term sustainability. This discussion underscored key priorities for a future legal entity. In order to enable these functions, the council identified essential operational services, emphasizing the need for a streamlined structure that is independent yet integrated.
However, several challenges were also noted, including navigating national regulations around funding, maintaining decision-making autonomy within the consortium, and managing operational costs.
The Rectors recognized that establishing a Legal Entity will enhance collaboration, branding, and stability within the alliance, positioning EU4Dual as a leader in dual education across Europe. With a commitment to finalize the Legal Entity by the end of 2025, the Rectors’ Council will continue refining its structure to align with these strategic priorities and address any operational challenges.
