The Polytechnic University of Tomar (IPT) hosted, on 13 January, a commemorative ceremony marking the first anniversary of the funding awarded by the European Commission to KreativEU – Knowledge & Creativity European University. The event took place at the IPT campus in Tomar and celebrated one year of activity of this European University Alliance.

The celebration had a strong European and collaborative dimension, with all alliance partners participating remotely in a synchronised programme. The agenda included several symbolic and institutional moments, such as the official launch of KreativEU Radio, the simultaneous hoisting of the KreativEU flag across partner institutions, an address by the President of the alliance, and a commemorative session reflecting on the achievements of the first year of activity.

One of the highlights of the event was the launch of KreativEU Radio, a key initiative foreseen in the alliance’s activity plan. The radio now operates as a communication and sharing platform among partners, featuring content produced by the different universities. Its programming showcases international cooperation projects, good practices, and initiatives aligned with KreativEU’s shared vision in the fields of higher education, research, creativity, and cultural heritage.

According to João Freitas Coroado, President of KreativEU, the first year represents “a period of consolidation of the alliance, marked by concrete results, strong institutional engagement, and a clear affirmation of the project within the European landscape.” He added that “the major challenge is, together and despite our cultural differences, to demonstrate the resilience and ambition required to build a plural, eclectic, creative, and innovative University, in which the KreativEU community recognises itself as a unifying link grounded in European values.” 

Among the main milestones of KreativEU’s first year of activity are the numerous initiatives and projects developed by partner institutions, including summer programmes, academic events, and Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs). During this period, the European University Alliance also joined the UNESCO UNITWIN Network, further strengthening its strategic positioning in the area of cultural heritage.

A selection of images from the 1st anniversary celebration is available here.