Sumy National Agrarian University has become a full member of the European University Association, one of the most influential organizations in the European higher education area. This is a landmark event for the university, marking a new stage in its international development and establishing SNAU as a full participant in the European academic community.
The decision to admit SNAU as an Individual Full Member was made by the EUA Council on October 30, 2026. From now on, the university joins a community that not only unites leading higher education institutions, but also represents their interests, participates in shaping European education and science policy, and defines strategic guidelines for the development of the university environment.
The European University Association was founded in 2001 and celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2026. According to the Association, its membership comprises more than 800 universities and national rectors’ conferences from 48 countries, representing institutions that educate approximately 19 million students.
The EUA represents the interests of universities in their relations with European institutions, contributes to policymaking in higher education and research, and promotes academic autonomy, quality assurance, innovation and international cooperation. Its key areas of activity include professional networks for university leaders and specialists, analytical research, international discussion platforms, and the dissemination of effective institutional development practices.
Membership in the Association gives universities the opportunity to engage directly in professional dialogue at the European level, exchange management and research expertise, participate in joint initiatives, and present their positions on current issues in higher education development.
For SNAU, this achievement is the result of many years of consistent efforts to build international partnerships, participate in European education and research programmes, and promote academic mobility. The university consistently integrates international experience into the educational process, expands opportunities for students and faculty, and develops scientific cooperation with foreign institutions.
The Erasmus+ programme and Jean Monnet projects play an important role in these efforts. SNAU has participated in international initiatives aimed at promoting organic farming in line with European approaches, exploring EU climate leadership, promoting the circular economy, developing aquaculture and fisheries, improving doctoral education, and strengthening cooperation between universities and local communities.
Academic mobility is a significant component of internationalization. SNAU students and academic staff take part in study, teaching and traineeship programmes at higher education institutions abroad. The University’s partners in these programmes include the University of Foggia (Italy), Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (Germany), Afyon Kocatepe University (Türkiye), and the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague.
Full membership in the EUA expands SNAU’s institutional opportunities. In particular, the University will be able to engage more actively in the Association’s thematic networks and professional platforms, establish contacts with European universities, identify partners for joint research and educational projects, and draw on the EUA’s analytical resources and expert knowledge to improve its own management and educational practices.
Of particular importance is the opportunity to represent the interests of the Ukrainian university community within the European academic environment, showcase SNAU’s research potential, and contribute to discussions on key issues shaping the future of higher education, research and innovation.
Full membership in the European University Association recognises Sumy National Agrarian University’s achievements and marks an important milestone in its institutional development. It opens up new prospects for international representation, professional cooperation and the implementation of the University’s strategic priorities.
Congratulations to the entire SNAU academic community on this significant achievement! Even amidst wartime challenges, the university continues to develop, strengthen its position in Europe, and honorably represent Ukraine in the international academic community.
