Dear 4EU+ community,
This first 4EU+ newsletter arrives during exceptional and challenging times for each of the 4EU+ universities. They require concerted, careful and creative action from the leadership, and from stakeholders, ranging from staff and faculty to students. I wish each 4EU+ university courage and creativity for finding solutions to carry on the essential missions of our institutions.
The situation also radically curtails the mobility of staff, students and faculty between our universities – which is a central mission for 4EU+. Still, the situation does not prevent, but rather encourages us to share and circulate ideas and good practices. And our robust commitment of working together is evident in the continuing collaboration in various fields, most centrally at this stage in taking the first steps in the European University Project.
But this situation might allow for even more than demonstrating our resilience and enduring commitment to 4EU+ in times of strain. It brings to the fore the key tenets of understanding who we are as 4EU+ universities. First, as knowledge-centered institutions, the production of valid, reliable and relevant knowledge as our key purpose could not be more evident. Second, as critical, discursive and comprehensive institutions, we can demonstrate that moving from knowledge to action requires open dialogue, across boundaries and an astute cultivated sense of careful, nuanced judgement that defies manipulation and simplistic answers. Last, as decidedly public institutions, we are not only committed to serving society by addressing challenges that are brought to us and contributing to the common good; but we also show particular care for the well-being of our members inside our institutions: our students, faculty—and particularly in these days—staff.
I trust that this newsletter will illustrate the variety of creative responses and the underlying commitment of each 4EU+ university – and thus also of us as an Alliance. It should reassure you that we will continue our common work and encourage you to take part in it. The purpose of and need for joining forces is surely reinforced, despite any difficulties, in these days.
Sincerely
Volker Balli