HZ has joined UASNL, a collaboration of 22 universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands.

Together, they aim to strengthen their European research profile. The organization was established in 2020 to increase the visibility of practice-based research in Europe. While the importance of research by universities of applied sciences is well-recognized in the Netherlands, it still requires greater attention in Brussels.

Addressing societal challenges

Thanks to their practice-oriented approach to research and innovation, universities of applied sciences are becoming increasingly important in tackling societal challenges. Their research is vital not only for the region but also on a national, European, or even global level. For instance, they can play a significant role in achieving the ambitions outlined in the recently published report on sustainable competitiveness by Mario Draghi.

An additional benefit of this practice-based research is that the results are reintegrated into education. UASNL has an EU office in Brussels, where it contributes to policy development, builds European partnerships, and showcases the value of applied research, all under the motto "together we are stronger."