FilmEU Unveils Its Ambitious Next Phase
Expanding Horizons: New Initiatives to Revolutionise Film and Creative Industries in Europe.
Ghent, Belgium – November 29, 2023: FilmEU, a European University without precedent or parallel, celebrates the kick-off of its transformative next phase in Ghent, Belgium. Originally comprising four institutions and now expanded to eight, FilmEU represents a revolutionary force in higher education for film and media arts. This European University for Film and Media Arts, with the support of the European Universities initiative, is a catalyst for the metamorphosis of tertiary education across the member states.
Since its inception, FilmEU has achieved remarkable milestones. Now the European University is poised to create a lasting impact, envisioning a significant educational framework that will shape the landscape of screen arts in Europe and beyond. This initiative will influence societal discourse on sustainability, inclusion, climate, research, mobility, innovation, and digital transformation, extending its impact far beyond the partner institutions.
The core discipline of Film and Media, along with broad range of subject areas found in the participating Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), will benefit immensely from FilmEU's programmatic approach. This approach will empower each partner to transcend their individual strengths, influencing both external engagement and internal structures. FilmEU is preparing for the evolving national and European Higher Education sector, creating a mutually beneficial and supportive environment for all stakeholders.
Responding to the call by the European Commission to deepen, expand, and intensify existing cooperation, FilmEU is thrilled to welcome four new partners. This expansion from four to eight leading HEIs across Europe, led by Lusófona University of Portugal, includes original members Luca School of Arts in Belgium, IADT in Ireland, and TLU in Estonia, and welcomes VŠMU (Slovakia), LMTA (Lithuania), VIA University College (Denmark), and NATFA (Bulgaria). This enhanced partnership consolidates diverse expertise within the cultural and creative industries, strengthening Europe's global leadership in education, research, and innovation.
FilmEU is proud to announce two major funding achievements that mark a significant endorsement from the European Union. Firstly, the alliance has been allocated €12.8 million from Erasmus+. This is a testament to the EU's strong support for FilmEU as the only European University dedicated to the cultural and creative industries. This funding is a pivotal step in advancing screen arts and culture education across Europe. Additionally, FilmEU has successfully secured €5 million from Horizon Europe for the WIRE (Widening Innovation Research Excellence) FilmEU project. This project, part of the HORIZON-WIDERA-2023-ACCESS-03-01 call, is set to bolster Research & Innovation capacity within the alliance, particularly focusing on the widening countries. The WIRE FilmEU initiative, complementing the FilmEU+ educational and innovation agenda, is dedicated to reinforcing our research agenda, with a special emphasis on artistic research capacitation. Together, these funds propel FilmEU forward in its mission to reshape and invigorate the landscape of film and creative industries education, research, and innovation in Europe.
FilmEU will build upon the success of the Alliance's previous efforts, exploring innovative models for sustainable cooperation. By consolidating complementary programmes in filmic arts and related fields, FilmEU aims to elevate Europe's profile as a cutting-edge provider of education, research, and innovation in the cultural and creative industries.
Celebrating diversity, FilmEU offers an authentic and unique educational experience, promoting a broad spectrum of storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries. With the European Commission's significant investment, FilmEU, the European University is poised to shape the future of arts and culture education, foster innovation and collaboration, and create a lasting impact across Europe's creative landscape.
"As we embark on this new phase of FilmEU, we are not just expanding in numbers but also in our vision for the future of creative industries education in Europe," says Manuel José Damásio, head of the Film and Media Arts Department at Lusófona University. "With our alliance growing from four to eight institutions, we're weaving a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, ideas, and creative expressions. This expansion is a testament to our commitment to revolutionising film and media arts education, fostering innovation, and building a collaborative and inclusive environment that resonates with the dynamic spirit of Europe. Our goal is not just to educate but to inspire a new generation of creatives who are equipped to narrate Europe's story through a multitude of lenses, fostering a society enriched by diversity, creativity, and forward-thinking."
