NEOLAiA Alliance meeting in Czechia: NEOcharter for Diversity and Inclusion established
From 13 to 15 May, the vibrant city of Ostrava, Czechia, hosted the latest meeting of the NEOLAiA European Universities Alliance, bringing together key representatives from across Europe to shape the future of inclusive, innovative higher education.
The event was hosted by the University of Ostrava and gathered participants from the Governing Board, Steering Committee, Executive Committee, Student Advisory Group, External Advisory Group and the Alliance's regional representatives.
Šiauliai State Higher Education Institution was represented by Director Lina Tamutienė, Deputy Director Nedas Jurgaitis, NEOLAiA Project Communication Manager Gina Zdanavičienė and President of the ŠVK Student Union Anastasiia Lukoshius.
The intensive agenda included committee meetings, city and university tours and strategic discussions focused on current and future NEOLAiA activities. Participants actively engaged in constructive dialogues and strengthened inter-university cooperation—sharing progress in educational initiatives, reflecting on institutional strengths and addressing common challenges.
Lina Tamutienė took part in the Governing Board meetings, expressed her appreciation for the strong student involvement in NEOLAiA activities, and emphasized that the alliance feels and operates like one big family.
“To me, NEOLAiA resembles a tree—its deep roots symbolize the strength that comes from the regions, while the branches represent opportunities and new ideas,” said L. Tamutienė.
Nedas Jurgaitis successfully joined discussions with vice-rectors from all NEOLAiA universities, where strategic directions and future collaboration models were explored.
Gina Zdanavičienė presented the outcomes of NEOLAiA’s communication and dissemination efforts, highlighting key achievements and upcoming plans. She emphasized the growing importance of alliance visibility and the need for active involvement from all NEOLAiA representatives in promoting its results.
An important milestone was reached on May 14, when the Governing Board members officially signed the Diversity & Inclusion NEOCharter (D&I NEOCharter) — an innovative policy that reaffirms the Alliance's shared commitment to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion. The D&I NEOCharter outlines core principles and practical commitments that will guide NEOLAiA universities in creating an environment in which students and staff of all backgrounds can thrive. By signing the NEOCharter, all members of the Alliance commit to align their approach to inclusion, gender equality, and diversity in accordance with this common framework. This also includes the development of tailored action plans at each NEOLAiA university.
As the Alliance continues to evolve, this meeting served as a reminder of the power of European cooperation in shaping inclusive, forward-thinking higher education systems. The next stages of NEOLAiA’s work will build on the energy and outcomes of this productive gathering, with an emphasis on action, engagement, and lasting impact for all member institutions.
