European universities are currently facing major challenges within the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education and research. Effective leadership, both at present and in the future, is indispensable at all levels within universities. In this context, ECIU seeks to engage its students as the next generation of leaders and managers. This challenge is unique in the world and is distinguished by its diversity in several respects, bringing together participants from different academic disciplines and from across ECIU member universities.

This student-focused challenge builds upon the longstanding Leadership Development Programme for ECIU staff, which has been successfully delivered for over twenty years. This challenge is specifically designed for students who may not yet possess formal leadership experience but who demonstrate a strong interest in acquiring and developing such skills. The insights and competencies acquired through this challenge are intended to be transferable to participants’ ongoing and future involvement in ECIU activities.

The challenge has different focuses:

- The exploration and further development of personal leadership styles,
- Examination and discussions of the latest developments in (European) higher education policy,
- Understanding and exploration of vision and strategy development, organizational cultures and leadership styles within universities,
- Experimental learning through an institutional immersion at the University of Trento, including site visits to innovative projects
- Engagement in challenge-based learning by carrying out a real-life project independently in teams.

This challenge is closely aligned with the ECIU University Vision 2030, which articulates a holistic view on the interconnection of higher education, research, and innovation, emphasising the integration of these domains with both regional and the European ecosystems, with the aim of generating sustainable, societal impact through in innovative approaches. During the challenge, students will work collaboratively on real-life problems confronting universities, particularly those associated with new, flexible and personalized educational pathways, as well as broader issues concerning the establishment of a truly European university and ecosystem that serves society.

The challenge is targeted at ambitious students with a strong interest in leadership and organizational development in the public sector, especially in higher education. Affiliation with ECIU or experience in university policy work is considered advantageous.

We expect the participating students to engage fully (being full-time present) at both the online sessions and the in-presence week in Trento. Physical presence during the Trento week is compulsory, as the sessions will not be streamed. Furthermore, students must commit sufficient time to collaborative work on the challenge - during the Trento week as well as in the subsequent period.

The seminars are taught in English. The sessions are highly interactive in nature, incorporating (small-group) discussions and exercises. Accordingly, proficiency in both written and spoken English are a prerequisite for participation.

CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a document that summarizes your educational and professional history. It must provide a detailed overview of your academic and work experience, skills, achievements, and qualifications.

Member universities may require additional information from applicants. Please read the application information section carefully and include any extra required information in this section.

Other

University of Trento

Navigating the Future of Universities in Europe

Associate partner

ECIU University

Associate partner

ECIU University