Closely linked to the world of work, Professional Higher Education can help meet the skills gaps Europe is facing and develop the broader competences required for the green and digital transitions. However, reinforced cooperation with business will be needed, as well as with other education and training institutions, governments, and civil society, which should develop regional skills ecosystems. Industrial transition demands the reskilling and upskilling of workers at all ages and therefore adult learning will become more relevant for higher education. Furthermore, Europe needs more trained researchers in all regions to apply knowledge in SMEs. Amid this background of rapid economic and technological change, the 32nd EURASHE Annual Conference is an opportunity for inspiration and co-creation of human capabilities for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

We are thrilled to welcome exceptional keynote speakers who will share their insights and views on equipping our students with the skill sets to meet the needs of industry and society as a whole.

This year's keynotes include Ligia Deca, Romanian Minister of Education and former President of the European Students Union, as well as Arno Meerman, CEO of the University Industry Innovation Network.

The Conference will also have a policy roundtable on the European Year of Skills, panel discussions on applied research, skills for the labour market and how quality assurance systems can foster innovative approaches to skills development.

Many EURASHE members are part European University Alliances and a townhall session on the initiative will launch a community of practice on transnational cooperation in applied higher education, providing great networking opportunities.

On top of this, more than 20 education experts from all over Europe will have the chance to share their projects and good practices in breakout sessions.

We have a wonderful venue this year with excellent facilities.

UPB is an international school of engineering, and the oldest Technical University in Romania, with 15 different engineering faculties, 70 laboratories and almost 30000 students.