On 18 September 2024, members of the Council of Europe Sub-Group on Higher Education visited Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, to engage in discussions on internationalisation, academic freedom, support for refugees in integrating higher education and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education.
Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne is a hub for academic excellence with over 45,000 students, 20% of whom are international. The university offers 52 double degrees and boasts a strong focus on research in law, political science, economics, and management.
The visit provided a platform for exchange on the topics, which are at the core of the Council of Europe higher education programme, such as the democratic mission of higher education, recognition of refugees qualifications and the new topic of Artificial Intelligence in higher education.
The discussions highlighted the university’s efforts with its Observatory of AI and other linked initiatives in exploring the topics on the use of AI in teaching and research, while raising awareness on the ethical concerns, transparency, and regulation in AI’s use in higher education.
Internationalisation and social responsibility were key themes during the visit. The university’s active participation in programs like PAUSE, which supports refugee researchers, was commended. The UniR initiative, which unites all Parisian universities to facilitate education and integration for refugees, has provided French language training and helped students achieve vital qualifications to further their education.
In addition, the university’s strong commitment to sustainability, academic freedom, and democratic governance was presented. The University is strongly involved in the Una Europa alliance, bringing together eleven European universities to find new ways of collaboratively conducting the research of the future and forging new paths in education and societal outreach.
At the conclusion of the visit, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and the Council of Europe Education Department agreed to strengthen their collaboration and explore further opportunities for cooperation.
