Determined by digital technology, jobs are becoming more fl exible and complex. More important than ever is the ability of people to have a proper education and training, entrepreneurship, to manage complex information, to think autonomously and creatively, to use resources, including digital ones, to communicate effectively and be resilient. Europe also needs more high-performing people who can develop cutting-edge technologies and solutions on which our future prosperity depends. At the same time, combating the growing polarization of our societies, the lack of trust in democratic institutions and the signifi cant increase of the pandemic impact caused by COVID-19, it is necessary for all people, including higher education staff and students, to be more actively involved, within the communities around them and to promote social inclusion and mobility.