Arqus Language Centre Directors Meet at Vilnius University
On 1–2 June 2026, the Faculty of Philology of Vilnius University hosted directors and representatives of Arqus University Language Centres for a strategic meeting on the future of plurilingualism and intercultural cooperation within the Arqus European University Alliance.
The meeting brought together members of the Arqus Community of Practice Languages and Cultures, led by Prof. Dr Olaf Bärenfänger, Director of the Language Centre at Leipzig University. The event was opened by Associate Professor Dr Gintarė Judžentytė-Šinkūnienė, Vice-Dean for Studies at the Faculty of Philology, Vilnius University.
Representatives from Leipzig University, the University of Lyon, the University of Wrocław, and Maynooth University attended the meeting in person to discuss the future of Working Group 11: Plurilingual and Intercultural Hub, co-led by Leipzig University and Vilnius University. As Arqus Phase II concludes in September 2026, participants explored ways to ensure the sustainability of its activities during the upcoming Bridge Funding Phase.
Over the next two years, Vilnius University will lead plurilingualism-related activities within Work Package 03: European Values. Discussions focused on two flagship initiatives: the Arqus Cafés and the Arqus Plurilingualism Module.
Participants examined opportunities to further develop Arqus Cafés, Arqus Lounges, and language summer schools, creating more spaces for multilingual interaction and promoting languages beyond English across the Alliance.
Special attention was given to the Arqus Plurilingualism Module, developed in 2023–2024 and successfully piloted at Vilnius University. The module combines theoretical studies in multilingualism and intercultural communication with formal language learning at A1 level and participation in Arqus Café activities to upscale another language skills in an informal way.
The successful pilot of the Plurilingualism Module at Vilnius University has attracted growing student interest. Participants discussed how the module could be expanded and offered as a credited course at other Arqus universities in the the upcoming Bridge Funding Phase.
The meeting also addressed an overview of the results and achievements of the Community of Practice of Language Centre Directors and its role in strengthening cooperation across the Alliance in the future.
The discussions highlighted the strong commitment of Arqus partner universities to promoting linguistic diversity, intercultural dialogue, and innovative approaches to language education, while laying the groundwork for continued collaboration in the years ahead.





































