Cooperation networks
The Estonian Rectors’ Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences is a member of EURASHE – the European Association for Applied Sciences in Higher Education, representing Estonian universities of applied sciences internationally and actively contributing to the development of the applied higher education sector.
EURASHE three thematic priorities, corresponding to the Communities of Practice, are at the forefront of the EURASHE strategy: Applied Research, Quality Assurance and Skills. RCUAS representatives are active participants in EURASHE’s professional communities of practice, where they share experiences, exchange good practices, and shape the future of applied higher education together with partners across Europe.
Within the EURASHE network, the Estonian Rectors’ Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences is represented by Ulla Preeden, who was first elected to the EURASHE Board in 2023 as Estonia’s first representative and elected Vice President of EURASHE in 2025. In this role, she continues to represent RCUAS in EURASHE until 2027, contributing to the development of European higher education policy and advocating for Estonian universities of applied sciences at the international level.
“EURASHE is a vital platform for knowledge and cooperation, creating valuable links between higher education institutions, employers, and different levels of education – including partners beyond Europe. This kind of international collaboration helps highlight the essential role of applied higher education in addressing today’s societal and economic challenges. Standing for shared interests, engaging in purposeful collaboration, and exchanging experience internationally are key strengths that must be maintained and fostered within this network. EURASHE brings together countries, organisations – and most importantly – people.”
Ulla Preeden, Rector of Tartu Applied Health Sciences University