The events began with a Transnational Project Meeting held on 16-17 September, bringing together project partners to review progress and coordinate the next stages of implementation. Discussions focused particularly on the development of the ACE toolkit and the University-Community Partnership Pathway, including criteria, instruments, best practices, and validation processes that will support higher education institutions in building meaningful community partnerships. Partners also exchanged updates on project management, communication, quality assurance, valorisation, and sustainability activities. The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the consortium and align efforts for the final stages of the project.
A highlight of the visit was the official launch of the ACE Alliance, which took place on 17 September during a blended event attended by project partners and a wider audience interested in university-community engagement. The meeting showcased the results developed by the consortium and demonstrated how the project is moving from concepts and research into practical tools and resources available to higher education institutions across Europe.
Representing Lodz University of Technology, Dorota Piotrowska delivered a keynote presentation on the strategic importance of community engagement from an institutional perspective. Participants also explored practical examples of engagement activities and learned about the resources developed within the project to support universities in strengthening their societal impact.
One of the most significant outcomes presented during the symposium was the launch of the ACE Platform and the Guide to Forming University-Community Alliances. These resources are designed to help universities and external stakeholders establish effective partnerships and share good practices in community engagement.
The strong interest in the launch event, which attracted participants from across Europe, confirmed the growing importance of community engagement in higher education. As the project enters its next phase, the ACE Alliance will continue expanding its network and promoting collaboration between universities and communities through pilot activities, new partnerships, and shared learning opportunities.
For more information about the ACE project, visit the website:
https://acecommunity.eu