Transform4Europe Talks in Burgas
11 September 2024 | Burgas, Bulgaria
About
On 11 September 2024, T4ERI hosted a pivotal panel discussion in Burgas, Bulgaria, focused on the role of universities in regional development. The event, titled “Empowering Regions Together: Universities as Drivers for Regional Development“, gathered experts from academia, government and industry to explore how universities can shape the future of their regions through collaboration and innovation.
Key speakers included Prof. Anastas Gerdzhikov, former Rector of Sofia University, Ingrida Krivickaite, Innovation Advisor at Saarland University, Prof. Vesela Kazashka of the Center of Plant Systems Biology and Biotechnology, Ann-Kristiin Entson, an urban planner from Estonia and Maria Todorova from Bulgaria’s Ministry of Innovation and Growth. The discussion was hosted by T4EU Secretary General Sven Idarand.
The discussion emphasized:
- Universities’ role in preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market.
- Public-private partnerships that promote innovation and economic growth.
- The importance of connecting academic research with industry needs.
- Collaborations with local governments to align university goals with regional development strategies.
The event concluded with a call for stronger university-region partnerships to address future challenges, especially in areas like digitalization and AI, ensuring long-term regional prosperity.
This panel was a part of Transform4Europe‘s broader mission to strengthen ties between universities and regions, empowering them to tackle future economic and societal challenges together.
