Universities play a crucial role in society and contribute to the sustainable, resilient and inclusive development, founded on democratic values, of Member States, local communities and regions alike, also because the presence of universities gives a competitive advantage to the communities hosting them.
Addressing the SEDEC Commission, Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj Napoca and raporteur on the European Strategy for Universities opinion said “Universities have a unique position at the crossroads of education, research, innovation, serving society and economy. They are the lighthouses of our European way of life, they promote and protect our democratic values, diversity, freedom of speech and gender equality.”
Emil Boc pointed out the benefits of a stronger local and regional dimension in the design and implementation of the ideal model for universities in future: “Local and regional authorities can develop smart relationships with universities in terms of community development. Universities need to change their approaches and functions, one change being to produce knowledge and services for the communities in which they operate, while local authorities can facilitate this relationship by creating programs aimed at the permanent involvement of universities in solving community problems, using universities for advice and expertise.”
He also spoke about creating and consolidating local and regional ecosystems promoting active cooperation and networking between public authorities, businesses and industry, and universities. He added that the contribution of universities is essential in providing advice or devise for digital and green transition strategies geared to local or regional circumstances and specificities.
Markku Markkula, President of Helsinki Region highlighted the roles of universities as innovation hotspots for regions: “Through universities and education, regions and cities can to become the new hotspots for innovation and co-creation. They will be the prototypes for inventing the future and creating the future of Europe.”
Borboly Csaba, President of Harghita Council said “Education is essential to ensure equal opportunities, social integration, digital transition, improving the competitiveness of young people in the labor market, strengthening youth work, non-discrimination and understanding of intercultural difference.”
Better working conditions for online workers
The last two years has proven that a need for better working conditions for people engaged in work through digital labour platforms. It is important that local and regional authorities ensure that they are given support and training in order to strengthen their skills in this area, especially as they may be entrusted with legislative monitoring and enforcement tasks.
Sergio Caci, Mayor of Montalto di Castro said “Improvement of working conditions for those working through digital platforms is essential and possible. It is a topic that became fundamental during the pandemic. It is only through local and regional authorities that we can make sure that no region is left behind and insist on welfare, invest in economic resources, energy and engage more stakeholders. Making progress in protecting workers is possible.”
Markku Markkula, President of Helsinki Region said “There are a number of issues that we need to think about like new types of employment, a clear definition of workers and most important the human dimension. We are talking about improving working rights as well as networks of businesses. Working from a distance or online working allows us to progress and develop the economy and we need to make sure that humans are the centre of this.”