The opening was led by Esteban Sanchis Kilders, Delegate of the Rector for the FORTHEM University Alliance, and Carlos Pomer Monferrer, Head of the International Relations and Cooperation Service. Both highlighted the solid international trajectory of the University of Valencia, built throughout its 525 years of history, and underlined its ability to lead global initiatives, a key element in joining the Utrecht Network.

After the inauguration and the presentation of the annual report by the network's Steering Committee, which highlighted recent achievements and strategic direction, the day continued with two innovative workshops focused on the challenges for the future of the network. The first, led by Francesco Girotti of the Università di Bologna, explored the transformative impact of European University Partnerships on the internationalization of higher education. Girotti highlighted the role that networks such as the Utrecht Network, with its nearly 40 years of experience, play in this scenario. Participants analyzed the synergies between European alliances, networks and consortia, assessing how to maximize their benefits and strengthen the activities of the Utrecht Network. The second workshop, led by Wessel Meijer of Tilburg University, addressed a crucial topic in the current landscape: “Knowledge Security”, in which participants had the opportunity to work on seven case studies, recognize security risks and reduce them to an acceptable level, so as to ensure that international (scientific) cooperation can take place safely.

The event concluded with a presentation by Elena Consolini, Head of the International Relations Strategy Support Unit at the Università di Bologna, who highlighted in her session the importance of effective communication as a tool to strengthen the network. This session is part of the communication plan that the network is carrying out in its different Task Forces.

The Universitat de València's commitment to the Utrecht Network

The Universitat de València joined the Utrecht Network ten years ago to expand its international collaborations,” explained Carlos Pomer. “It was one of the most emblematic and prestigious university networks, and we are proud to be part of it. We wanted our partners to get to know our university and our city more deeply, as València has a lot to offer. We see in the Utrecht Network an opportunity to strengthen ties and explore new collaborations”.

In these ten years, the University of Valencia has played a leading role in key initiatives of the network, such as the “Summer School Task Force” as well as its collaboration in international staff weeks, joint programs and other joint activities. These activities have laid the groundwork for its participation in the European University Alliances that subsequently emerged.

Hosting the AGM 2025 has not only demonstrated the commitment of the University of Valencia to the Utrecht Network, but also shown the high degree of internationalization achieved by this institution.