The Ministerial Summit of the EUI 50th anniversary will take place in Florence on 7 May 2026
The Ministerial Summit: 'Universities for the future. Higher education and research in re‑imagining Europe' is a high‑level meeting gathering ministers of education and research, selected foreign ministers, and European Commissioners from the EUI’s 24 Contracting States.
The Summit will provide a dedicated space for political leaders to discuss how universities, research institutions and higher education systems can contribute to Europe’s future in a time of rapid societal, technological and geopolitical change.
Participants will reflect on the role of knowledge, academic cooperation and scientific excellence in addressing today’s key challenges, from innovation and competitiveness to democratic resilience and social cohesion. The Summit will also explore how to strengthen cross‑border collaboration and ensure that higher education remains a strategic pillar for Europe’s long‑term development.
A press conference will follow the conclusion of the Ministerial Summit.
The meeting will continue with the spring session of the EUI High Council, where Member State delegates and EU institutional representatives address matters relating to the EUI’s governance, strategy and future priorities.
Held as part of the EUI’s 50th Anniversary celebrations, the Ministerial Summit stands as one of the year's key institutional moments, bringing together governments, European institutions and the academic community to reimagine the future of higher education in Europe.
Participation is by invitation only.
For further information, please contact the secretariat at flagship.events@eui.eu.