University of Helsinki Joins Universitas 21
On 1 September 2025, the University of Helsinki (UH) officially became a member of Universitas 21 (U21), a global network of leading research universities committed to enhancing the student experience, fostering educational innovation, and shaping global engagement in higher education . For the University of Zurich (UZH), Helsinki’s membership broadens opportunities for joint initiatives that prepare students and staff to thrive in an interconnected world.
U21 connects 30 universities across 18 countries around the world, creating a unique platform for students, academics, and professional staff to collaborate beyond regional boundaries. Through collective projects, global learning opportunities, and shared innovation in teaching and learning, U21 strengthens the impact of higher education worldwide. Helsinki’s addition enhances the network’s European presence, joining nine other universities from the continent.
The University of Helsinki is internationally recognized for excellence in areas such as in life sciences, climate and environmental studies, digital and data-driven sciences, and sustainable development. Its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) aligns closely with U21’s mission as well as and UZH’s Global Strategy 2030, supporting both the network’s academic objectives and its societal impact.
UZH sees clear benefits from this new membership. Katja Durkin-Sommerhalder, Head of Global Affairs at UZH and U21 Senior Leader, comments: “We are delighted to welcome the University of Helsinki to U21. UZH and UH are now connected through three major networks: U21, the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and the European Universities Alliance Una Europa. This broader connection opens up new opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and exciting experiences for students, academics and staff – at a global scale.”
For UZH, active participation in U21 means contributing to global discussions on educational innovation, supporting academic mobility and development, and offering students unique international learning experiences. With Helsinki as a new partner, U21 members are well-positioned to build stronger connections between people, ideas, and institutions across the world – further reinforcing the role of universities in tackling the complex challenges of our time.
Carmen Richard & Thurka Sinnathurai
