Brussels, VUB, January 20, 2026 

The Steering Committee of the PhDGOV project, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme, convened in Brussels within the framework of the project’s training programme hosted by Vrije Universiteit Brussel. 

During the meeting, Steering Committee members reviewed the overall progress of the project against its objectives and work plan, with particular focus on the outcomes of the capacity building programme delivered in Brussels and the accompanying study visits to European partner universities. Partners discussed the quality and relevance of the training activities, the level of engagement of participating institutions, and the added value of the comparative European–Palestinian exchange in doctoral education governance. 

The Steering Committee also examined administrative and financial aspects of the project, including budget execution, reporting requirements, and compliance with Erasmus+ rules and procedures. These discussions aimed to ensure transparency, sound financial management, and timely delivery of upcoming project milestones. 

A key part of the meeting was dedicated to planning the next implementation phase. Committee members discussed forthcoming activities under the relevant work packages, including the refinement and implementation of institutional action plans developed by the Palestinian partner universities. These action plans are intended to translate the knowledge gained during the capacity building programme into concrete reforms at institutional level, particularly in the areas of PhD governance structures, supervision practices, quality assurance mechanisms, and research management. 

The meeting also addressed dissemination and sustainability strategies, emphasizing the importance of sharing project results with a wider audience of higher education institutions and stakeholders in Palestine. Participants highlighted the role of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Palestine, as well as the National Accreditation and Quality Assurance Commission in Palestine in supporting the uptake and institutionalization of project outcomes, ensuring that the impact of PhDGOV extends beyond the project’s lifetime. 

Steering Committee members reaffirmed their shared commitment to the project’s vision of strengthening doctoral education governance in Palestinian higher education institutions through evidence-based reform, international cooperation, and alignment with European best practices. The constructive dialogue and consensus reached during the meeting underscored the strong partnership spirit among the project consortium and their collective responsibility for achieving sustainable and meaningful results. 

The Steering Committee Meeting marked an important milestone in the PhDGOV project, providing strategic direction and reinforcing coordination among partners as the project moves forward toward implementation, dissemination, and long-term impact.