Rector of Federal University of Rio de Janeiro proposes trilateral exchange programme for BRICS+ universities

The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) hosted the second BRICS+ Rectors' Forum, which brought together more than 300 participants over two days, including representatives from academia and government agencies.

The forum's discussions covered a range of topics related to sustainable and inclusive development. Key topics included language policy, the impact of artificial intelligence on education, the energy transition, university cooperation in the field of health care, and joint strategies to combat poverty.

UFRJ Rector Roberto de Andrade Medronho highlighted Brazil's potential in the energy sector and noted opportunities for expanding cooperation with BRICS countries.

"Brazil has one of the most environmentally friendly energy structures in the world. We can share our experience and offer innovative solutions in the field of energy transition – in particular, what China is already implementing," he said.

Medronho also confirmed the signing of a number of cooperation agreements, including a partnership with Indonesian universities. In addition, one of the key achievements of the forum was an agreement on international academic mobility, which will allow students to study in different countries under a triple degree programme.

"We are developing a master's programme in digital economy, which will involve students studying at Peking University, Lomonosov Moscow State University and the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro – the three largest universities in these countries. This will create a group of students who will spend one semester in China, one in Russia and one in Brazil," he explained.

Brazilian Minister of Education Camilo Santana, who took part in the forum's opening ceremony, emphasised the importance of the event as a tool for strengthening BRICS and enhancing the influence of the countries of the Global South in the international governance system.

"BRICS exists to unite the efforts of states. And when it comes to academic ties, diversity becomes a resource that enhances potential and quality. Expanding partnerships is the key to reducing dependence," the Minister noted.

At the end of the meeting, the forum participants prepared a joint declaration of intent for the periods 2025–2027 (short term) and 2027–2030 (long term). The document envisages the creation of a catalogue of university scholarships and the formation of a BRICS Academic Cooperation Fund to finance partnership initiatives and stimulate innovation in higher education between participating countries.

Photo: Fabio Caffe / SGCOM/UFRJ