Published: 2025-12-10

Umeå University held its first EC2U Think Tank on equitable access to education

NEWS How can we ensure that education is accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstances? This question was the focus when Umeå University hosted its very first European Campus of City Universities (EC2U) Think Tank on 3 December. During the afternoon, researchers, teachers, doctoral students, students and community representatives gathered to share experiences, exchange ideas and discuss how education can become more equitable and inclusive.

Text: David Meyers

En grupp människor i ett rum med en projektorduk.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Cathrine Norberg speaks at Umeå University's first EC2U Think Tank on December 3.

ImageDavid Meyers

The Think Tank was opened by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Cathrine Norberg, who highlighted how the EC2U collaboration strengthens both research and community development. She described the network as a catalyst for new ideas and collaboration between universities and community actors in Europe. Umeå University participates in all focus areas and works to disseminate research-based knowledge to the region, develop interdisciplinary projects and provide policy proposals. The goal is to contribute to solutions to the educational challenges facing today's society.

The debut Think Tank for Umeå University had the theme “equitable and universal access to education” and focused on two areas:

digital inclusion
linguistic and cultural competences

Discussions revolved around issues such as how we can create inclusive digital learning environments, ensure access to digital resources and strengthen critical thinking in the digital age. Participants also explored how language and culture can serve as resources for participation, with a particular focus on minority languages and multicultural learning environments.

The purpose of the Think Tank is to identify practical and sustainable solutions, develop new collaborations, and contribute to policy recommendations within EC2U and the EU. The results of the discussions will be compiled and presented at the EC2U Forum in Turku on 18–21 May 2026, under the theme “Shaping European Futures through Quality Education.”

What are EC2U Think Tanks?

EC2U Think Tanks are open and inclusive forums that bring together participants from diverse backgrounds across all EC2U member universities. Their purpose is to create a platform for dialogue, mutual learning, and cooperation – both locally and at the European level.

Each year, partner universities organize local sessions around a shared theme. Through workshops, debates, and co-design activities, participants exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore solutions. What emerges locally becomes part of a broader European conversation within the EC2U network.

Discover more on the EC2U website