EUA is pleased to invite university leaders from its membership to an online discussion on the impact of artificial intelligence on labour markets and society and what this could mean for universities. Based on different scenarios about technological developments and their impact on labour markets, participants are invited to exchange views on what this would mean for Europe’s universities.

The idea is to develop the discussion around EUA’s vision of Europe’s universities in 2030, which notes disruptive technologies and further digitalisation as main drivers for change in the years ahead. The workshop is the second in a series of online events for university leaders aimed at turning EUA’s vision into a reality.

The rise of artificial intelligence and further digitalisation have the potential to change lives and disrupt labour markets. Some jobs disappear due to automatisation, others change profile and new ones are created. This means that people’s skills needs are evolving, and lifelong learning is increasingly important. Beyond the world of work, these transformations have the potential to profoundly change the way we interact as humans in an environment that is more and more shaped by technology.

Universities are part of these developments. They produce knowledge for new technologies and social innovation and at the same time have an important role in assessing the impact of new technologies on society, the economy and the planet. Universities also have to enable their graduates to develop the necessary skills and mindsets.

Beyond universities, private providers come into play as they offer new ways of reskilling and upskilling and platforms to do this online. This could lead to universities facing competition from new types of learning providers. At the same time, big technology companies could gain influence on universities themselves by providing platforms for data, learning and research.

These developments are of great relevance to Europe’s universities as they develop their own strategies towards skills development and digitalisation.

Designed as a thought experiment, the online workshop will bring about new ideas and practical examples to inspire universities in their strategic development. The outcomes will feed into a publication outlining scenarios and possible pathways for universities to achieve their vision, taking into account the diversity of profiles and local contexts across Europe.

The event is open to leaders of EUA member universities. Registration is possible upon invitation only.