Media Releases 2007

12 November 2007

Australian and European universities - enabling greater collaboration

Delegates from the European University Association (EUA), the peak group for higher education in Europe representing more than 700 universities in 45 countries, are meeting with Vice-Chancellors from across Australia today in Sydney.

Universities Australia is hosting the discussions with senior representatives from European universities, which will specifically focus on the Bologna process, and the fostering of research links between Australia and Europe.

“This is an opportunity to get an update, and exchange ideas with experts leading the Bologna process in Europe, which aims to create greater synergies between degree programs offered in different countries,” Universities Australia Chair, Professor Gerard Sutton said.

“The Bologna process encompasses standardisation of degree structures, qualifications recognition and quality assurance processes.

“One of the outcomes of the Bologna process will be to stimulate greater student mobility,” he said.

“The Australian university sector continues to explore avenues to support Australian students having an international education experience as part of their study.

“Australia is continuing to take a proactive global role as a provider of world-class education, in collaboration with our counterparts in Europe.

“The discussions will also focus on further facilitating Australian and European universities’ research collaboration,” Professor Sutton said.

As part of the week-long program, Universities Australia has organised meetings between the EUA and the Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA), Australian Research Council (ARC), and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and site visits to several universities.

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