The European University Association meets in Istanbul, hosted by Yeditepe University, to shape the future of European higher education.
The European University Association (EUA), which brings together university leaders from 48 European countries and represents universities and national rectors’ conferences across Europe, will hold its 2026 Annual Conference in Istanbul on 16th–17th April 2026, hosted by Yeditepe University.
Representing universities from 48 European countries, EUA contributes to the development of European higher education within the framework of the Bologna Process and conveys universities’ perspectives to decision-making processes related to European Union policies on higher education, research, and innovation.
The main theme of the 2026 conference has been set as “University Cooperation in Changing Contexts.” Cooperation among institutions, sectors and countries remains a key driver of success in education, research and innovation. However, ongoing political, economic and social changes at the global level are raising new questions about how such cooperation can be sustained.
The conference will address why cooperation matters, how it is evolving and which partnership models are likely to shape the future. Universities’ relationships with public authorities, the private sector and other stakeholders will be discussed in light of geopolitical developments, technological transformation, sustainability goals and economic conditions.
Through panel sessions and interactive discussions, participants will have the opportunity to explore university partnerships and cooperation with public institutions and industry from local, national and international perspectives.
The EUA Annual Conference is a key meeting point that brings together rectors, university presidents and senior leaders from across Europe each year to discuss current issues in higher education. The event is held alongside the EUA General Assembly, contributing to the setting of the Association’s priorities for the coming period.
By hosting the conference in 2026, Yeditepe University will welcome European university leaders to Istanbul and provide an important platform for dialogue on the future of cooperation in higher education.