EU ministers to meet in Paris to discuss future of research, innovation and higher education in Europe

The informal meeting of competitiveness ministers (research, innovation) will be held in Paris on 24–25 January 2022. The meeting will focus on synergies between higher education, research and innovation as well as the future of higher education institutions in Europe.

The ministers responsible for higher education, research and innovation will convene for an informal meeting of the Competitiveness Council, organised by France, which began its Presidency of the Council of the EU at the start of the year. State Secretary Jukka Ihanus will represent Finland on behalf of Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä. 

The topics include the strategy and future of European higher education institutions and synergies between education, research and innovation. Finland considers it important that the mobility of information, skills and researchers is developed and supported both at the EU and national level. Openness of research should also be developed further. Openness advances the quality, reliability and effectiveness of research as well as the attractiveness of research careers.

The themes of the meeting are also a key ingredient for Finland to achieve the objectives of the National Roadmap for RDI. As the need for expertise and top talent grows, the EU must take a determined approach to become a global leader in higher education and research. 
In informal council meetings, ministers discuss current issues, but no decisions are taken.

Inquiries:
Taru Löyttymäki, Senior Specialist, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 29 504 7177
Leila Vilhunen, Adviser to Minister of Economic Affairs (EU and International Affairs), tel. +358 29 504 7120