The two-day summit will focus on strengthening cross-border collaboration between universities across Ireland. Speakers are expected to underline the importance of deeper cross-border partnerships in tackling shared challenges, with delegates discussing student mobility, research funding, inclusive economic growth and the role of higher education in responding to geopolitical and societal challenges. 

The opening sessions have set the tone with a clear call for stronger cooperation between institutions north and south. The conference got under way on Thursday evening with a leadership roundtable and dinner at Queen’s, addressed by former Tánaiste and Fine Gael TD, Simon Coveney. 

Professor Sir Ian Greer, President and Vice-Chancellor of Queen’s University Belfast, said: “We are proud to host this conference at a time when cross-border partnership has never been more vital. Universities Ireland and this conference in particular provide a unique forum to unify our efforts, exchange knowledge and show the value of higher education and its role as a driver of inclusive economic impact. The discussions over the conference will spark new collaborations that make a tangible difference to our students, society and all-island economy that will have a long-lasting impacting beyond the two-day event.” 

Professor Eeva Leinonen, President of Maynooth University and Chair of Universities Ireland, said: “The aim of this conference is to reinvigorate Universities Ireland as the central platform for dialogue, partnership and innovation across the island. Collaboration is what turns intention into impact, and by working together we can deliver more collectively than any one university can achieve alone. Universities Ireland provides the living infrastructure for that partnership, linking ideas, people and possibilities to deliver real benefits for our students, our communities and our society.” 

Simon Coveney, who addressed the dinner last night and joins the conference today, said: "Cross-border collaboration between our universities is critical for academic excellence as well as for the prosperity and resilience of this island. By working together, institutions north and south can help drive innovation, economic growth and social progress. I am delighted to be part of these important conversations at Queen’s.” 

Speakers across the conference programme include representatives from the European University Association, policymakers from both jurisdictions, and leading academics showcasing examples of successful all-island collaboration in research, innovation and community engagement. 

The Collaborating for Change conference runs until this afternoon, when delegates will agree next steps for a renewed Universities Ireland agenda. 

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