In this December, the IV Conference of the European Network of Innovative Higher Education Institutions (ENIHEI) took place at the University of Aveiro (Portugal). During the conference, representatives from higher education institutions and policymakers exchanged ideas and future strategies, and discussed the role of higher education in Europe in promoting innovation, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinarity and industry collaboration in the academic sector.
 

One of the main topics of the conference was the experience of knowledge and technology transfer in European universities. The discussion addressed the shift in the evaluation of scientists from a quantitative to a qualitative approach. This shift underscores the growing importance of qualitative impacts in scientific research and academic activities, such as societal relevance and practical application possibilities. Universities shared measures they are taking to increase faculty involvement in the dissemination of scientific results and integration of science and business. However, these changes and the uncertainty they bring have led to some resistance within the academic community. Universities understand the challenges posed by these uncertainties and are making significant efforts to clearly communicate the necessity of accepting and adapting to these changes, as well as demonstrating their long-term benefits.
 

During the event, the ENIHEI Secretariat presented the achievements and challenges of the past year, as well as the work plans for 2024, with a focus on preparing joint applications, participating in different initiatives, and presenting the network at target events. The network will continue to encourage activities in five main working groups: University living labs, European Innovation Ecosystem, Researchers as innovation actors, Deep-tech women leadership, and Students' enterpreneurial talent.