Universidade Católica Portuguesa brings together 300 experts in Lisbon to discuss the future of higher education
On February 12 and 13, the headquarters of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa in Lisbon will host the 2026 European Learning & Teaching Forum, promoted by the European University Association (EUA), which will bring together 300 experts to discuss the future of higher education in light of developments in artificial intelligence, demographic changes and changes in the labour market.
Acting as a platform for analysis and sharing of best practices on how universities can innovate in learning and education and be protagonists of pedagogical transformation, this forum will feature the participation of rectorial teams, academic leaders, teachers, researchers, educators, and policy makers from more than 140 universities and other institutions linked to higher education in 42 countries.
The programme includes plenary sessions, panel discussions, workshops and practical presentations, held in collaboration with universities in Portugal, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Georgia, Sweden, Ireland, Germany, North Macedonia, South Africa, Austria, Poland, the Netherlands, Finland, Switzerland, Latvia, Spain, Malta, the USA, Oman, Ukraine, Turkey, Croatia, Denmark and Italy, among others.
"Holding this year's Forum in Lisbon reinforces the commitment of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa to creating learning environments that are intellectually rigorous, socially responsive and aligned with the constantly evolving needs of students and societies", says Isabel Capeloa Gil, President of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa.
“Católica has always prioritised pedagogical innovation, integrating research-oriented teaching, digital tools and student-centred approaches to ensure that all students have the conditions to thrive. This Forum is an opportunity to continue this work collectively, reinforcing the culture of educational excellence in Europe and co-creating strategies that prepare our institutions for the challenges ahead," she adds, as host of the event.
The impact of Artificial Intelligence on student literacy and academic institutions, the retraining of teams, the role of university alliances in defining teaching methods and programmes, the use of innovative teaching tools, and the importance of sustainability in educational models will be some of the topics covered during the two days of the 2026 European Learning & Teaching Forum.