Kent was delighted to be invited to the official launch of the University of Lille I-SITE project, a French government- funded project themed around three hubs; Precision Human Health; Science for a Changing Planet and Human-Friendly Digital World. The project aims to sustain and expand excellence in research, develop international visibility and attractiveness, improve collaborations with socio-economic partners and develop innovative pedagogical methods. For further details on the project visit: http://www.isite-ulne.fr
The afternoon event (14:30 – 16:30) comprised a round table discussion on the topic of The Europe of Universities: challenges and perspectives. This was chaired by Pauline Ravinet, VP Affaires Européenes, University of Lille and included contributions from students of the University of Lille, commenting on the benefits and challenges of their international experiences. The panel members were Anne Corbett (LSE), Ciprian Mihali (Bureau Europe de l’Ouest de l’Agence universitaire de la Francophonie), Martina Vukasovic (Centre for Higher Education Governance Ghent (CHEGG)) and Lesley Wilson (European University Association).
The evening event (17:00-20:00) comprised a presentation of the I-SITE Project including a video explaining the project and speeches by key members of the project including the University of Lille President, Professor Fabienne Blaise, Director General of the I-SITE Project, and members of various project partner organisations. The event showcased the first steps taken by the project as well announcing the winners of the first calls for projects. A number of awards were presented and round table discussions on the themes of the award categories followed.
The University of Lille is one of Kent’s long-standing partners with whom we are involved in a range of collaborative activities across a number of academic schools. On 22 January 2018 Kent hosted a delegation from the University of Lille to present the I-SITE project and discuss the potential for Kent’s participation. We look forward to exploring further areas for development between our institutions.