V4+WB RMA Network Final Conference

The conference will be a two-day international event in Budapest, Hungary that will target RMAs, institution leaders (HEIs, RPOs) and policy-makers. It will be dedicated to knowledge sharing, skill development and networking. The event will also conclude the project. The conference will focus on the RMA field, its recognition, current status and challenges in V4+WB countries. The conference will raise awareness of the importance of involving RMA professionals in international R&I capacity building, knowledge exchange and their training opportunities to fulfill their roles in the support of excellent research. The conference will give opportunity for networking and skill development of RMA professionals in EU funded R&I project and will include a summary presentation about the project, its impact and possible ways of maintaining the network. Institution leaders of partner HEIs and RPOs, as well as policy-makers will be invited in order to showcase them the importance of the RMA profession, the provision of training and networking opportunities – which can be regarded as one key to boost the economies and competitiveness of WB+V4 countries. A specific session will aim to launch a dialogue to pave the way for better recognition, support and opportunities of RMAs. RMA professionals working on the recognition and professional development of Research Managers and Administrators will be invited to share their knowledge. Lessons learnt and testimonials about the benefits of networking and training of RMA staff will be presented at plenary sessions. High-ranking EU policy-maker / EC officer will be invited to provide a keynote speech about the integration possibilities of EU and Western Balkan countries. The conference will attract RMAs, institution leaders and policy-makers from V4 and Western Balkan countries. Beside the participants of project partners, budget is planned to cover the participation of 1-1-1 RMA / policy-maker / institution leader of each partner country. RMA and policy-maker participants will be selected based on an open and transparent application process. In addition, for 8-10 people it will be also possible to take part in the event on their own costs. In the aftermath of the Covid-19 crisis, if necessary/in case of any grave situation occurs, the partnership foresees all events convertible to online meetings or events – even though online meetings/events can have limited impact and possibilities. Thanks to the Central European Initiative's Cooperation Grant, we will be able to provide funding for participants not only from the V4 and WB countries but also from countries covered by the Central European Initiative.