The first generators have arrived at Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design, Zaporizhzhia National University, and Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, ensuring continued education and student welfare during power outages. Coordinated by Cormack Consultancy Group under the Twinning initiative, this effort is supported by Durham University, Sheffield Hallam University, and the University of Bath, with every pound donated doubled by a philanthropic organization.

Last week, Yana Sydorenko, CCG’s Twinning Assistant Manager, participated in the ‘Justice, Recovery and Reconstruction in Ukraine’ conference hosted by Edge Hill University, where she discussed the role of international cooperation in supporting the resilience and recovery of higher education during and after the war. The conference featured all-female panels, offering a platform for female academics and practitioners to network and collaborate on key issues related to justice and human rights.

Last week, Roger Horam, CCG Associate, shared his expertise on successful bid writing at the Horizon Europe Digital Technologies event during the 5G Techritory conference in Riga. Organized by the research councils of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, the event brought together over 190 researchers and business representatives from 36 countries, both in-person and remotely.

John Bunter recently visited Coimbatore and Bangalore, meeting with colleagues at Karunya University, REVA University, Christ University, Chanakya University, and Jain University. During these discussions, John introduced the Equitable TNE Partnership Model and explored how CCG can support these institutions in developing and strengthening their international partnerships.

Donald Trump’s re-election raises significant concerns and uncertainties for the U.S. higher education sector, particularly around policy changes, federal funding, and international engagement. Institutions are bracing for potential shifts in regulatory oversight, academic freedom, and diversity initiatives, prompting strategic adaptations to safeguard their missions and students' needs.

CCG had a fantastic time at the Universities UK International TNE conference, where we hosted a breakout session with insightful contributions from Kuldeep Dagar, Stuart Bannerman, Sally Wheeler, and Roy Tokunbo Olowu. We’re excited to continue the discussions on Equitable TNE, and welcome anyone with further questions to get in touch!

The UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative was launched in response to the 2022 Russian invasion, facilitating tailored partnerships between British and Ukrainian universities to address diverse needs such as academic support, staff development, and infrastructure rebuilding. Over two years, the initiative has established over 100 partnerships, supported 620+ projects, and engaged 15,000+ students, proving its impact while navigating challenges like system differences and language barriers.

The unpredictable landscape of international student recruitment, worsened by restrictive immigration policies in major markets, poses challenges for universities, particularly smaller institutions with limited resources. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) offer a flexible, scalable solution, providing expertise, streamlined processes, and financial support to enhance recruitment efforts while fostering diversity and improving applicant experiences.

We are delighted that alongside Mosaik Education and Universities UK, we have won the Progressive Education Delivery Award for The UK-Ukraine Twinning Dual Degree Project!

CCG had an engaging second day at the Global Education Network (Africa) 13th Annual Multidisciplinary Academic Conference, where our Director of Partnerships, Phill Gray, presented on the Equitable TNE Model. We had valuable discussions with representatives from institutions across Nigeria, South Africa, Cameroon, and Botswana, and are excited to support these institutions in strengthening their international partnerships.

Globally, only 7% of refugees access higher education, compared to a 42% global average, largely due to financial and logistical barriers. UK universities, through innovative Transnational Education (TNE) models like the UK-Ukraine Dual Degree Programme, have a unique opportunity to bridge this gap, providing affordable pathways for displaced students while enhancing their global impact and reputation.

Last week, CCG’s Regional Director for India, John Bunter, visited universities in Mangalore, including St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Nitte University, and Yenepoya University. The discussions focused on how CCG can support these institutions in developing their international collaborations, and we’re excited about the potential partnerships and opportunities ahead.

Australian universities are at a critical juncture, facing challenges from domestic policy changes, international student caps, and shifting global perceptions. To ensure long-term sustainability, the sector must diversify its internationalisation strategies, embrace transnational education, and adapt to evolving global and local demands.

The global higher education landscape demands a shift toward Equitable Transnational Education (ETNE), emphasizing sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships between institutions in the Global North and South. By fostering trust, investing in partner development, and supporting joint initiatives, ETNE creates a resilient and ethical model for international education.

The second day of CCG’s International Twinning conference focused on strengthening partnerships and enhancing universities’ resilience. Key sessions included a discussion on dual degree programmes with Oleksandr Smyrnov, showcasing exciting opportunities like FutureLearn initiatives, Mentorship schemes, and free virtual internships for Ukrainian students, as well as COIL training generously supported by The Hague University and Oxford International Education Group. The event concluded with a powerful panel on Ukraine's reconstruction, featuring notable experts and chaired by Vivienne Stern.

A week after the Second International UK-Ukraine Twinning Conference, we’re reflecting on the impactful discussions from the first half of the event. Highlights included a keynote from Mychailo Wynnyckyj on the resilience of Ukraine’s higher education amid the invasion, followed by a panel with Olga Budnyk, Dame Sally Mapstone, and Colm McGivern on the sustainable development of Ukraine’s higher education and the role of international collaborations like the Twinning initiative in supporting Ukraine’s academic community.

Last week, Gintaras Steponavicius, CCG’s Director for CEE+ region and former Minister of Education of Lithuania, attended the “Teachers of Tomorrow” festival in Lviv, where over 2,500 educators gathered to discuss the future of education in Ukraine. Gintaras shared his insights on education reform, including teacher training and bullying prevention, and met with key figures such as the Ukrainian Minister of Education Oksen Lisovyi to explore further collaboration.

This week, CCG’s Aziz Boussofiane and Anzhela Stashchak facilitated a three-day strategic workshop at the Transport and Telecommunication Institute (TSI) in Latvia, helping to shape the university’s strategy for 2025-2030. The workshop marked an important step in guiding TSI’s future direction, and we look forward to the developments that will come from this collaboration.

Last week, CCG had an incredible time at the NAFSA conference! Over three days, our team engaged with industry leaders and explored new opportunities for collaboration in international education. Thank you to everyone who met with us and contributed to these productive discussions.

We’re excited to be in New Orleans for the 2024 NAFSA Annual Conference! Our team is reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new ones.