The Technological University of the Shannon (TUS), the only Irish university to be a member of the Regional University Network – European University (RUN-EU), will simultaneously celebrate RUN-EU Day on 16 October alongside its nine European partners.
This day highlights a shared commitment to European university cooperation, driving sustainable development, innovation, and the core values of the European Union.
TUS joins ten universities from nine European countries to empower over 100,000 students and 10,000 staff across the continent. RUN-EU’s mission is clear: to equip students with the advanced skills necessary to tackle the major green, digital and social challenges of the 21st century, fostering economic, social, cultural and environmental progress in all participating regions.
The alliance brings together ten universities from nine European countries: Technological University of the Shannon (Ireland), Polytechnic Institute of Leiria (Portugal), Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave (Portugal), HAMK University of Applied Sciences (Finland), NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands), Vorarlberg University of Applied Sciences (Austria), University of Burgos (Spain), Howest University of Applied Sciences (Belgium), Technical University of Liberec (Czech Republic), and Dunărea de Jos University of Galați (Romania).
Commenting on the day’s events, TUS Vice President of Research, Development and Innovation, Dr Liam Brown said: “Today is a true reflection of the strength of European collaboration, knowledge exchange and cultural diversity. Since its inception, the alliance has fostered deep teaching, learning and research cooperation through joint programmes, short learning opportunities, formation of European wide research groups and the immersive research institute. TUS is dedicated to advancing inter-university research, driving transformation, and strengthening regional and international interconnectedness.”
Since its inception in 2020, the alliance has generated significant impact:
- The alliance represents over 57 faculties and 103 research centres throughout Europe.
- Secured over €7 million in funding from eight approved European project proposals.
- Through RUN-EU students, staff and researchers benefit from a huge range of opportunities for international engagement, from short SAP courses to degree programmes, in addition to online and blended learning. Over 3000 mobilities have taken place across cycle 2 (2024 – June 2025), including 350 TUS staff, students and associated partners.
The alliance is also distinguished by its strong commitment to cooperation with businesses, public institutions, and third-sector organisations, which actively participate as strategic partners in designing learning opportunities, contributing to project development, supporting the work of innovation hubs, and engaging in activities led by the European Stakeholders Engagement Center (ESEC). This joint effort is strengthening public-private cooperation and investment, fostering the attraction and retention of talent, and contributing to regional development across Europe.
The celebration of RUN-EU Day is a wide-ranging programme of simultaneous activities, designed to bring the alliance closer to university communities and their regional surroundings.