The University of Alicante brings together European experts to discuss university leadership and artificial intelligence
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The University of Alicante (UA) is hosting this week the international T4EU Transformational Leadership Programme, an initiative focused on university leadership and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in higher education. The event, taking place from 13 to 15 May 2026 at the main campus in Alicante, brings together experts, institutional leaders, and representatives from the eleven European universities that are part of the Transform4Europe alliance.
Under the theme “Leadership in Universities – Challenges from AI”, the sessions address key issues related to artificial intelligence governance, digital transformation of universities, accessibility, and international cooperation in technological innovation.
The programme began on Wednesday with a first session dedicated to AI governance. Among the highlighted contributions was that of Francisco García Peñalvo, Professor at the Department of Computer Science and Automation at the University of Salamanca, who analysed artificial intelligence governance strategies from a university perspective. The programme for the day was designed and coordinated by Rafael Molina, in collaboration with the Office of Institutional Project Management (OGPI). In addition, the Vice-Rector presented the strategic lines of the University of Alicante in the field of artificial intelligence and digital transformation, reinforcing the institution’s role as a benchmark in academic innovation.
The day also included several collaborative workshops aimed at designing a common framework for AI governance for the institutions participating in T4EU, through discussion sessions, idea exchange, and proposal evaluation.
On Thursday, the programme continued with a second day focused on innovative AI practices applied to the university environment. Representatives from Saarland University presented solutions developed at their institution, while specialists from the University of Alicante shared experiences related to governance models, the coexistence of large and small language models (LLMs and SLMs), and AI-based learning communities.
The programme will conclude on Friday with a cultural day in the city centre of Alicante, including a guided tour and a tasting of traditional cuisine.
With this initiative, the University of Alicante becomes, for these days, a meeting point for the European debate on the strategic and responsible use of artificial intelligence in higher education institutions.
