Apply now: Represent Umeå University at the EC2U Forum 2026 in Turku

Welcome to the tenth forum of the EC2U Alliance in Turku, Finland, on May 18–21, 2026.

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The EC2U Forum is an annual event where students and staff from the nine partner universities of the EC2U Alliance come together to develop collaborations, exchange ideas, and strengthen the European university community. This year’s theme is: “Shaping European Futures through Quality Education”. 

Over four intensive days, participants will take part in lectures, workshops, cultural activities, and the EC2U Student Challenge, where international student groups work on key topics related to education, inclusion, and societal development. 

This year’s Student Challenge includes 10 topics linked to quality education: 

• Equitable, inclusive and accessible learning for all 
• Digital transformation and the future of learning
• Education for active European citizenship
• Sustainability in higher education
• Continuous learning and skills for the future
• Innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education
• Educating for peace and resilience
• Supporting employability and integration through education
• Multilingualism and intercultural learning
• Supporting mental health and wellbeing through education 

A detailed description of all topics is available in this document. 

All Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD students enrolled at Umeå University during the spring term of 2026 are welcome to apply. Since the event is held in English, good English proficiency is required. 

Why participate? 

Participating in the EC2U Forum is an opportunity for both academic and personal development. As a participant, you will: 

• Collaborate in interdisciplinary and international student teams
• Contribute with your perspectives on the future of European education
• Connect with students from eight other European universities 
• Strengthen your skills in communication, project work and problem‑solving 
• Join cultural and social activities while experiencing Turku in springtime 

More information about the forum is available here: https://ec2u.eu/ec2u-forum-university-turku  

Mobility period and grant 

The mobility period covers a total of six days. You will arrive in Turku on 17 May, participate in the activities from 18-21 May, and return home on 22 May.
 
Participants will receive a mobility grant of 1,484 euros, paid in SEK according to the exchange rate on the day the grant is processed. The grant is intended to cover travel, accommodation, and other necessary expenses during the mobility period. 

How to apply: 

Applications and the selection process are handled by the student unions. In your application, you must rank all 10 Student Challenge topics from most to least preferred (1 = most preferred). 

Send your expression of interest no later than 4 March 2026 to your student union: 

• Umeå Student Union (US): ordf@umeastudentkar.se  
• Umeå Science and Technology Student Union (NTK): ordforande@ntkumea.se  
• Umeå Medical Student Union (UMS): ordf@medicinska.se 

We aim for a broad representation across study levels and disciplines, as well as a gender balance in the selection process. Priority will be given to students participating in an EC2U mobility for the first time.