Universitas Montium European Economic Interest Grouping (UNITA GEIE) is an innovative institutional tool created to enhance transnational academic collaboration in Europe.
Established in January 2023 by the six universities of the pilot phase of the UNITA alliance — University of Turin, University of Savoie-Mont Blanc, University of Pau et des Pays de l'Adour, University of Zaragoza, University of Beira Interior, and University of Vest din Timișoara — UNITA GEIE includes today also the Transilvania University of Brasov, the Public University of Navarra and, as an associate partner, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland: it represents the first initiative of its kind in Europe.
As an essential facilitator of the UNITA alliance’s mission, UNITA GEIE supports over 250,000 students and more than 21,000 teaching and administrative staff. Its core purpose is to assist its members in developing and implementing joint objectives in education, research, and innovation. By fostering cross-border collaboration, UNITA GEIE strengthens institutional ties and drives regional development within a European framework.
A Step Towards the European University
The establishment of UNITA GEIE marks a significant milestone towards achieving the European University model. By providing a structured and legally recognized framework, UNITA GEIE enables its members to experiment with new forms of collaboration that align with the European Commission’s strategies in higher education. Through this initiative, UNITA universities can develop and offer high-quality, multidisciplinary academic programs and research partnerships, ultimately benefiting both students and researchers.
Objectives and Strategic Vision
The main objective of UNITA GEIE is to facilitate the creation of a strong and transparent hub for higher education, research, and innovation. By leveraging its institutional framework, UNITA GEIE allows its members to:
- Develop enhanced academic training programs and research partnerships.
- Foster innovation in local, regional, and transnational territories.
- Implement recognized certifications and micro-credentials across partner institutions.
- Organize professional training programs, MOOCs, summer and winter schools, conferences, and other knowledge-sharing events.
- Strengthen cooperation with public and private partners to drive regional and European innovation.
UNITA GEIE also serves as a platform for broader collaboration beyond its founding members. Other national and regional higher education institutions, research organizations, and public or private partners may join or establish reinforced cooperation agreements to further enhance academic and research opportunities.
Strengthening Local and European Influence
By emphasizing European values and regional specificities, UNITA GEIE increases the international visibility and attractiveness of the UNITA alliance. Its strong integration within local, regional, cross-border, and European realities ensures a robust academic and research ecosystem that contributes to the long-term development of its member institutions and associated territories.
UNITA-Universitas Montium GEIE stands as a pioneering model in European higher education, demonstrating how transnational cooperation can shape the future of academic excellence and innovation in Europe.
Location: Via Po, 11 - Turin, Italy
Contact: unita.geie@gmail.com
UNITA GEIE governance structure »
EGAI Project »