Bragança Polytechnic University (IPB), Portugal, received a delegation from the University West (UW), Sweden, on a strategic visit focused on strengthening institutional cooperation in applied research, doctoral training and work-integrated learning, within the framework of STARS EU.

The visit aimed to consolidate new avenues of academic and scientific collaboration between both institutions, with special emphasis on joint doctoral programmes, mobility, educational innovation and knowledge transfer, thus reinforcing their commitment to a structured and sustainable cooperation model at European level.

Research, innovation and knowledge transfer at the core

One of the central axes of the program was the reinforcement of collaboration in applied research and its connection with social and regional needs. During the visit, the delegation toured several IPB research centres and units, including LiveWell, CITeD, UNIAG, CeDRI and GICoS, where they learned about projects in areas such as health and well-being, education and development, applied management, digitalisation, smart robotics and sustainable construction.

The Swedish delegation was led by Per Assmo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Internationalization at University West, and included heads of research, doctoral training, program coordination, and implementation of STARS EU. During their stay, the representatives held various working meetings with management teams, researchers and academic managers of the IPB.

 Advancing doctoral education and Work-Integrated Learning

Doctoral cooperation was high on the agenda, especially in areas such as Production Technology and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). The sessions addressed models of joint and double doctoral degrees, thesis co-supervision mechanisms, incorporation of doctoral students funded by third parties and governance frameworks compatible with the regulations of both institutions.

The WIL model, one of the distinctive elements of University West, was analyzed as a strategic opportunity to strengthen the connection between higher education, research and the labor market. Discussions focused on conceptual alignment, practical tools, expected outcomes and transferability of this approach within the context of STARS EU.

In addition to the planned activities, University West representatives visited other academic units of the IPB, such as the Higher School of Public Management, Communication and Tourism (EsACT) and the Higher School of Health (ESSa), expanding their vision of the training and scientific ecosystem of the Portuguese institution.

Towards a shared roadmap within STARS EU

The visit concluded with a strategic meeting in which both institutions defined priority areas for action, next steps and a timetable for future cooperation. This roadmap will serve as a basis for promoting joint initiatives in education, research, mobility and innovation, in line with the objectives of STARS EU as a European alliance committed to regional development, applied knowledge and social impact.

With this meeting, the IPB and University West reinforce their role as active partners within STARS EU and underline the value of international cooperation to generate concrete opportunities for students, researchers and communities across Europe.

A delegation from Aleksandër Moisiu University of Durrës (UAMD), Albania, one of its strategic partners within the STARS EU Alliance, visited Bragança Polytechnic University (IPB) from 26 to 30 June. The delegation, led by Rector Shkëlqim Fortuzi, included Vice-Rector Azeta Tartaraj, deans and faculty members from various scientific fields.

The visit aimed to deepen institutional cooperation already underway between the two institutions, while promoting strategic alignment in areas such as Management, Education, Languages, Public Administration and Law.

The programme began on 26 June with an official reception at the IPB Presidency, followed by a visit to the School of Technology and Management (ESTiG) and UNIAG – Applied Management Research Unit. Discussions focused on ongoing and potential collaboration within the International Business Management joint degree and other shared initiatives in Management and Information Systems.

Participation in Helix’25 Conference

In the following days, UAMD representatives took part in the international Helix’25 Conference, hosted by IPB. The event gathered researchers, academics, and public and private stakeholders to discuss regional innovation and sustainability.

Further meetings were held at the School of Education (ESEB) and CITeD – Transdisciplinary Research Center in Education and Development, to explore cooperation in Education and Language studies.

This visit reflects the growing bonds within STARS EU, reinforcing the alliance’s mission to foster internationalisation, knowledge co-creation, and sustainable regional development across Europe.