The Thomas More University of Applied Sciences is co-founding a new European university called HEROES, which will encompass 120,000 students across 22 campuses in nine countries.
The European University Alliance HEROES was officially launched today, supported by €14 million from the European Union. The largest university of applied sciences in Flanders.
"Our alliance unites the strengths of nine colleges and universities," stated Thomas More in a press release. "Together, we focus on digital innovation to make regions more resilient."
HEROES stands for Higher Education for Resilience-Oriented and Empowered Societies. Alongside Thomas More in Belgium, member institutions are located in Denmark, Germany, Finland, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Portugal, the Czech Republic, and Sweden.
In the coming years, these institutions will focus on education, research, and lifelong learning. For example, a Flemish agriculture bachelor’s student may take a module in Portugal to help a local business regulate plant growth with artificial intelligence, alongside business students.
"HEROES is not just a network," said Sofie Mols of Thomas More. "It is a movement driving innovation. Whether addressing climate change, digital healthcare innovation, or sustainable agriculture, we bring regional needs and expertise to the forefront."
From 21 to 23 January, more than one hundred staff members from all partner institutions will gather on the Geel campus to shape the concrete implementation of the alliance.
