Mission Statement

Vision for the Future

The Q-Helix European University Alliance pioneers a collaborative ecosystem that fosters innovation and sustainable development through the Quintuple Helix model. To realize our mission, we engage a diverse array of stakeholders, including students, educators, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, NGOs, and public authorities. This requires a long-term strategy with shared objectives, realistic formats, and robust structures to orchestrate significant transformations. Inspired by French President Emmanuel Macron's vision at the November 2017 Gothenburg Social Summit and endorsed by the December 2017 EU Council, we aim to create a European University that embodies these principles.

Network-of-Networks Approach

The Q-Helix will adopt a ‘network-of-networks’ strategy to optimize our resources. By combining our competencies and leveraging local and global networks of teachers, researchers, and innovators, we will foster dynamic interactions. Students will play an active role in developing their organizational skills and influencing ecosystems.

Security Focus

In an era marked by uncertainties and challenges—including health crises and geopolitical tensions — security is paramount. Our partners in Mitrovica, Dnipro, Kyiv, and Lithuania highlight the need for resilience against threats. We will establish a dedicated task force to assist partners in creating robust ecosystems capable of withstanding various risks.

Testing the Q-HELIX Approach

We will implement the Q-HELIX model in four interdisciplinary fields where partner strengths align:

1. Comprehensive Ecosystem Security
2. Environmental Ecosystem Conservation & Restoration
3. Healthcare Ecosystem Innovation
4. Smart City Ecosystem Development

Long-Term Strategy

The Q-Helix initiative outlines a 12-year long-term strategy divided into three phases of development.

Short-Term Ambition (2024-2028): Building European University Ecosystems

In the next four years, we will establish the European University and its ecosystems across five domains of action linked to four interdisciplinary societal challenges. Task teams will be formed to define specific objectives and targets, mapping, piloting, and scaling activities based on ecosystem needs analyses. These teams will consist of partner experts, students, and relevant ecosystem actors to ensure practical outcomes.

Medium-Term Ambition (2029-2032): Expanding European University Ecosystems

During this phase, we will scale our activities and replicate our approach beyond our existing 11 regional ecosystems. We aim to forge partnerships with other quintuple helix ecosystems across Europe and globally, leveraging our academic networks to share knowledge and best practices.

Long-Term Ambition (2033-2036): Consolidating and Renewing European University Ecosystems

In this final phase, our alliance will solidify its position as a key player in the European and global higher education landscape. Our impact expert team will develop scenarios to guide discussions on consolidation and renewal, ensuring that we remain adaptable and responsive to evolving educational needs.

Domains of Action

To achieve our ambitious goals, we have identified five domains of action:

1. Ecosystem governance, management, coordination, strategy, and development
2. Inclusive education addressing societal needs
3. Organizing research and innovation for sustainable development
4. Testing the Q-HELIX approach to ecosystem building
5. Assessing ecosystem impact and dissemination

By focusing on these areas, we aim to create resilient educational ecosystems that effectively respond to societal challenges while fostering innovation and collaboration.