The SPHERE Annual Conference 2024, held virtually on December 3–4, 2024, brought together thought leaders, policymakers, and education reform experts to explore the vital role of higher education in shaping society and driving economic progress. The conference centered around the overarching theme of “Higher Education Engagement with Society and the Economy,” aligning with SPHERE’s key focus for the year.
This year’s discussions spanned five dynamic sub-themes:
Institutional approaches and strategies for greening: Innovative pathways for sustainability in higher education.
Universities in local ecosystems: Strengthening the symbiotic relationship between universities and their communities.
University-Industry partnerships: Exploring teaching and educational collaborations with industry.
Inclusion in internationalization: Promoting diversity and access in global education initiatives.
European University Alliances: Highlighting their international impact and integration efforts.
The conference provided a platform to reflect on SPHERE’s 2024 activities, revisiting highlights and drawing connections between the sub-themes. These discussions inspired actionable insights for Higher Education Reform Experts (HEREs) as they continue to lead transformative reforms at national and institutional levels.
Key Objectives and Insights
Participants delved into the evolving relationship between higher education and its “third mission”—engagement with society beyond teaching and research. A highlight of the event was the presentation of preliminary findings from a European Commission-commissioned study on this topic.
The conference also featured a practice-sharing forum, enabling HERE teams to exchange ideas and showcase EU-backed projects that align with their annual reform priorities. This collaborative environment not only celebrated the successes of 2024 but also laid the groundwork for SPHERE’s 2025 work plan.
Spotlight on HERE Teams
A standout session was the panel discussion, “Key Takeaways for HERE Teams,” where a HERE team member shared insights and practical recommendations for reform strategies. Their contribution underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and adaptability in addressing the evolving challenges of higher education.