The SUNRISE Alliance will host its first annual summit at the Université de Technologie de Compiègne (UTC) from September 22 to 24, 2025. This landmark three-day event will bring together representatives of all partner universities, researchers, students, and stakeholders to exchange ideas, present results, and shape the future direction of the Alliance.

A milestone for SUNRISE

Since its creation, the SUNRISE Alliance has focused on strengthening collaboration between universities across Europe, with particular attention to regions that are often less visible on the international academic map. The first annual summit marks an important step in consolidating this vision and building stronger ties among partner institutions.

The program will include:

• Inspiring keynote presentations from leading experts in higher education and innovation,
• Interactive workshops encouraging cooperation and the exchange of good practices,
• Regional analyses showcasing the contexts in which partner universities operate,
• Highlights of SUNRISE achievements, celebrating progress made so far,
• Numerous opportunities for networking and collaboration across institutions.

Education and student mobility in focus

A key theme of this year’s summit is education and student mobility, with particular emphasis on strategies to make universities in rural areas more attractive to students. This focus reflects SUNRISE’s commitment to addressing educational disparities and promoting inclusive academic opportunities.

As the host institution, UTC will play a central role in these discussions, underscoring its unique position within the Alliance and its active engagement in shaping the future of European higher education.

Strengthening European cooperation

By uniting institutions from different parts of Europe, the SUNRISE Alliance aims to enhance student mobility, foster innovation, and strengthen the role of universities in regional development. The summit will serve not only as a platform for knowledge exchange but also as a launchpad for new projects and initiatives.

📅 Dates: September 22-24, 2025
📍 Location: Université de Technologie de Compiègne (UTC), France