21 September 2026
The Role of University Alliances in Higher Education and Talent Retention
Cyprus Forum 2026, taking place in Nicosia from 28 to 30 September, brings together policymakers, academics, business leaders, civil society representatives and international stakeholders to discuss the key challenges shaping Cyprus, Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Within this context, the session “Reinforcing Europe’s Democratic Future: The Role of University Alliances in Higher Education and Talent Retention” will explore how European University Alliances can contribute to a stronger and more inclusive European Higher Education and Research Area.
While alliances can strengthen mobility, research cooperation and educational innovation, skills shortages, brain drain and unequal opportunities for talent development remain significant challenges, particularly for smaller member states. The session will examine how alliances such as YUFE can translate European cooperation into tangible opportunities for talent retention, student and researcher mobility, skills development, responsible research and knowledge exchange. It will also consider how alliances can strengthen local innovation ecosystems and contribute to a more connected and resilient Europe. The discussion will bring together perspectives from University Alliance governance, higher education leadership, education and research policymaking, academic practice, and talent development and mobility, exploring how European cooperation can deliver meaningful impact for smaller member states.
Session Details
Date: 29 September 2026
Time: 12:00–13:00
The online access link will be available on the Cyprus Forum websites:
Cyprus Forum 2026 | Cyprus Forum
The Panel
The session will bring together leading representatives from government, higher education and research to discuss these important questions.
The panel will feature:
- Dr Athena Michaelidou, Minister of Education, Sports and Youth
- Professor Tasos Christofides, Rector, University of Cyprus
- Nadia Charalambous, Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus
- Ivan Romashchenko, YUFE4Postdocs Researcher
The discussion will be chaired by Maria-Valerie Schegk, Secretary General of the YUFE Alliance.
Join the conversation at Cyprus Forum 2026 in Nicosia, from 28 to 30 September, and explore how European University Alliances can help shape a stronger and more inclusive future for smaller member states.
Cyprus Forum | Redefining Policy Through Discussion
