On 9 February, ENHANCE member NTNU will host its annual European Conference in Brussels, bringing together experts, policymakers, and academics to discuss this year’s theme: “The Future guiding the Present: The Role of R&I and Education in navigating current and incoming EU Challenges.” Now in its 7th edition since 2016, the conference has already attracted over 250 registered participants. Attendees can join in person, including the opening reception the evening before, or online, as all sessions will be streamed.
Addressing Europe’s Strategic Challenges
Amid growing geopolitical, economic, and social pressures, including the ongoing impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Europe is facing increasing challenges to its strategic autonomy. The NTNU European Conference provides a platform to explore how research, innovation, and education play a pivotal role in shaping responses to these challenges. As the conference webpage notes, the event aims to “explore present-day challenges for our continent and, in dialogue with top Brussels policy-makers, attempt to chart a way into the future.”
Key Themes and Expert Speakers
This year’s conference focuses on four thematic areas: energy, sustainable food systems, access to raw materials, and the development of a fair and inclusive society. These topics are under heightened pressure in today’s context, making them central to the discussions.
The conference will feature high-profile speakers, including members of the European Commission and various Directorates-General. Notably, Maroš Šefčovič, Vice-President of the European Commission for Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight, will participate. The academic community is also well represented, with speakers from NTNU, the University of Oxford, the University of Copenhagen, and ENHANCE partners such as Anna Borg, Rector of NTNU, and Ena Voûte, TU Delft’s Pro Vice-Rector for International Affairs.
Conference Format
The conference is structured into three main segments: an opening plenary, parallel thematic sessions, and a closing plenary. The day begins by assessing current challenges across the four key areas, followed by discussions looking at the future of specific policy domains, and concludes with a joint dialogue on the future of Europe. This format ensures a comprehensive and forward-looking discussion, connecting research and policy with actionable insights.
Registration and Participation
Participants can choose to attend both the conference and the opening reception in Brussels, or follow the plenary sessions online. Registration is mandatory for both in-person and online attendance, with streaming links provided to online participants.
