BFU contributes to the adoption of the EUNICoast Community Engagement Policy
Burgas Free University took part in the development and adoption of the strategic document “Community Engagement as a Core Mission of the Transformative University – A Policy and Commitment Statement of the EUNICoast Alliance”, which defines the common policy of the European University Alliance EUNICoast regarding universities’ engagement with their communities.
The document was prepared by the Community Engagement Commission (WP4) and reflects the shared vision and commitment of all partner universities to strengthening the societal role of higher education.
The policy positions community engagement as a core mission of the modern university, alongside education and research. It emphasizes that universities should build sustainable partnerships with local communities, public institutions, businesses, and civil society organizations, jointly creating knowledge, innovation, and solutions to real societal challenges.
A special focus is placed on universities located in coastal, island, and port regions. According to the document, these institutions play a key role in the sustainable development of their territories through active cooperation with local communities on issues such as climate change, social inclusion, environmental protection, and regional development.
The document outlines six guiding principles for the Alliance’s future activities: reciprocity and shared benefit, territorial specificity, respect for diverse forms of knowledge, inclusion and equality, balancing academic autonomy with social responsibility, and building sustainable long-term partnerships. It also identifies specific commitments for universities, European institutions, and national policies aimed at promoting socially significant university activities.
BFU’s participation in drafting this strategic document is part of its active contribution to the development of the EUNICoast European University Alliance and to building a modern European higher education system based on societal partnership, sustainable development, and shared responsibility for the future of coastal regions.
EUNICoast Policy and commitment statement on CE
