Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution at UNINOVIS events in Málaga: from academic dialogue to strategic alliance building
Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution took part in a series of key UNINOVIS – Data for L.I.F.E. events held at the University of Málaga, Spain, combining academic exchange and strategic governance discussions. From Kauno kolegija, the events were attended by Director Dr Andrius Brusokas with a team, representing the institution in both academic and strategic sessions. The programme began with the UNINOVIS International Conference ‘Innovating Together’ and was followed by the UNINOVIS General Assembly, bringing together partner institutions from across Europe to reflect on progress, strengthen cooperation, and define the alliance’s future direction.
The UNINOVIS International Conference set the academic tone for the week, focusing on innovation, applied data science, and societal impact. Researchers, academics, and practitioners shared insights and research findings, reinforcing UNINOVIS’ ambition to become a leading European University Alliance in Data Sciences with strong innovation ecosystems and international outreach. The conference highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration and demonstrated how data-driven approaches can address challenges in education, health, and other key societal fields.
Following the conference, the UNINOVIS General Assembly marked an important moment of strategic reflection for the alliance. Hosted by the University of Málaga, the two-day meeting brought together governance bodies and partner representatives to assess achievements from UNINOVIS’ first year and to align priorities for the period ahead. Discussions were characterised by open dialogue, constructive collaboration, and a shared commitment to strengthening the alliance’s long-term impact.
During the Assembly, parallel sessions of the Board of Presidents, Executive Committee, Management Committee, and Student Council provided a structured opportunity to evaluate progress and coordinate next steps. A particular highlight was the Student Council session, where students from across Europe shared ambitious and thoughtful perspectives on the future of UNINOVIS. Their concrete goals for 2026, including increased mobility, stronger student participation, and the development of shared rules and regulations, once again underscored the essential role students play in shaping the alliance.
The second day of the General Assembly focused on impact and future direction. UNINOVIS General Coordinator Rudward Akueson reflected on the alliance’s achievements during its first year and outlined key challenges ahead. This was followed by an overview of quality assessment and impact within the alliance by Liana Berkowitz, reinforcing a clear message: UNINOVIS – Data for L.I.F.E. is no longer just an idea or coordination exercise, but a structured, visible, and functioning European University Alliance.
Key achievements in just one year include:
- Approximately 200 targeted student and staff mobilities across the alliance
- A 10% increase in mobility volumes for several partners
- Two Erasmus Mundus Joint Master applications underway
Multiple joint EU project proposals submitted - Successful organisation of innovation and challenge camps, staff weeks, and teaching BIPs
- Alliance-wide research internships for staff and students
Looking ahead, the alliance will focus on deeper institutional integration, long-term engagement, and concrete next steps such as pilot micro-credentials, joint and double degree pathways, and alliance-wide learning support.
The General Assembly concluded with a warm and meaningful closing address by Dr. Enrique Nava Baro, Vice-Chancellor for Mobility and International Projects at the University of Málaga. UNINOVIS General Coordinator Rudward Akueson presented an overview of the alliance’s development, emphasising that UNINOVIS has moved beyond the planning phase and is now a functioning and visible European University Alliance. This assessment was complemented by a focus on quality assurance and impact, underlining the importance of robust governance structures for sustainable growth.
Kauno kolegija Higher Education Institution’s participation in both the UNINOVIS International Conference and the General Assembly underscores its active engagement in international cooperation, academic excellence, and strategic partnership development. The institution returns from Málaga with strengthened connections, clearer strategic alignment, and renewed motivation to contribute to the continued growth and impact of the UNINOVIS European University Alliance.
