Hervé Jeanmart Elected as Next Chairperson of the Management Board
Hervé Jeanmart, Pro-Rector for International Affairs at UCLouvain, was elected as the next Chairperson of the Management Board. He will take up the role at the Board’s next meeting in December.
Reflecting on the alliance’s current momentum, Hervé said: “We have a positive dynamic, focusing on the future and our long-term vision. I am really confident we will do great work together.”
He also thanked the outgoing Chairperson, Giovanni Gronchi (Vice-Rector for International Cooperation and Relations, University of Pisa), for his contribution, acknowledging his work through challenging periods and the progress made during his time in the role.
Preparing for the Next Phase of Circle U.
One of the main focuses of the meetings was the preparation for Circle U.’s next funding phase. Building on the achievements of Circle U. 2030, discussions centred on identifying the priorities and working arrangements that will guide the alliance in the years ahead.
The Management Board and CUSU took part in a joint workshop structured around three themes: Circle U.’s vision and mission, its wider ecosystem, and its future working structure. The workshop gave university leadership and student representatives the opportunity to exchange perspectives on Circle U.’s strategic direction and consider how activities and communities can contribute to the future development of the alliance.
The General Assembly also discussed preparations for the next funding application. Rectors and presidents were updated on the work carried out by the various task forces and the process guiding the development of the application. This preliminary work has contributed to assessing the alliance’s current position, identifying key strategic guidelines and preparing the outline of the future work programme.
Discussing the Development of the Open Campus
The number of shared educational offers on the Open Campus continues to increase. Between 2024 and 2027, 155 activities have been submitted, including 43 bachelor-level modules. These range from online learning and joint courses and programmes to Blended Intensive Programmes.
At the General Assembly, participants took stock of this progress and discussed the role of the Open Campus in Circle U.’s next phase. As a framework for shared educational opportunities across member universities, it will remain an important part of the alliance’s future development.
Looking Ahead Together
The meetings in Aarhus allowed participants to reflect on Circle U.’s progress and consider what is needed to take the alliance forward. Discussions involving university leadership, students, work package members and the Circle U. Office contributed to shaping a shared direction for the alliance’s next phase.
As preparations for the next funding application continue, the focus remains on enhancing existing collaborations, strengthening the alliance’s educational and institutional impact, and ensuring that Circle U’s member universities can continue working towards common ambitions.
