News

On November 20th and 21st, the University of Wageningen in the Netherlands hosted the General Assembly and Student Conference of the European University Network for Life Sciences, ELLS. During this event, university representatives discussed opportunities for enhancing cooperation and shared experiences in organizing education and research activities.

Estonian University of Life Sciences (Eesti Maaülikool) has been a member of the ELLS network since 2023, participating as an observer, alongside some of Europe's leading agricultural universities and a few international members, such as those from Israel and New Zealand. At this meeting, it became clear that universities in the same field are facing similar challenges, such as declining interest among young people in studying agricultural sciences and national pressures to reduce the number of international students. By working together, it is easier to find solutions to these common problems.

The contribution of the Estonian University of Life Sciences to the network's activities has been growing. More and more of our experts are involved in ELLS's subject-specific working groups (Subject Areas) and support teams (Support Teams). Additionally, Vice-Rector for Education Endla Reintam played an active role in preparing a project proposal to seek funding for the development of the network under the European University model. Although the proposal received a Seal of Excellence, it is still uncertain whether funding will be granted due to limited financial resources.

At this meeting in Wageningen University, 16 members of the Estonian University of Life Sciences leadership, academic and support staff, as well as a student from the network's student organization ELSA, participated. In addition to the General Assembly, they attended a student fair organized by Wageningen University that showcased opportunities for studying abroad, working group meetings, and the student conference, both as jury members and presenters. The campus tours, highlighting Wageningen’s sustainable solutions, were particularly eye-opening, as the university prides itself on being the most sustainable university in the world.