From June 24 to 28, 2025, the SUNRISE European University Alliance proudly took part in Staff Week Marche 2025, hosted in Ancona and across the Marche region. The event was organized by our Associated Partner, UNIADRION, together with UNIVPM (Polytechnic University of Marche), which serves as both the Head Office and General Secretariat of UNIADRION. This edition of the Staff Week offered a dynamic example of how SUNRISE is extending its reach and impact through meaningful engagement with regional academic networks.

A Focus on Short Mobility and Blended Intensive Programs

Under the theme “Short Mobility: Strategies, Impact & Best Practices,” the Staff Week brought together 40 participants from universities in Italy, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Croatia. The discussions focused on the role of short-term mobility and Blended Intensive Programs (BIPs) in enhancing inclusion, accessibility, and innovation in higher education—key objectives of the SUNRISE Alliance.

SUNRISE Participation

Two SUNRISE member universities actively contributed to the event:

• University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszów (UITM), a full member of SUNRISE
• Džemal Bijedić University of Mostar (UNMO), a member of both SUNRISE and UNIADRION

Their involvement reflects SUNRISE’s commitment to building strong connections between European university alliances and regional academic communities, particularly across the Adriatic-Ionian and Western Balkans areas.

Institutional Engagement and Highlights

The agenda featured academic sessions, best practice exchanges, and institutional visits hosted by:

• Polytechnic University of Marche (Ancona and San Benedetto del Tronto)
• University of Camerino (Ascoli Piceno)
• University of Macerata

A highlight of the week was the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative, held at the Mole Vanvitelliana in Ancona. This symbolic venue provided a fitting backdrop to celebrate cross-border cooperation and regional integration.

Extending the Impact of SUNRISE

Staff Week Marche 2025 clearly demonstrated how collaboration with strategic partners like UNIADRION amplifies the reach and relevance of the SUNRISE Alliance. Through joint efforts in student mobility, academic exchange, and regional engagement, SUNRISE continues to contribute to a stronger, more connected European Higher Education Area.

We extend our sincere thanks to UNIADRION, UNIVPM, and all participating institutions for their dedication and enthusiasm throughout the week.