More than 150 experts from 22 countries gather to discuss EMI, plurilingualism, and the future of global higher education
From 18 to 20 June 2026, the NEOLAiA European University Alliance is holding its 2nd International Symposium on Language Policy at the University of Jaén. Organised by NEOLAiA’s Work Package 7, Towards a Plurilingual and Intercultural European University, the symposium brings together more than 150 researchers, educators, policymakers, and institutional leaders from 22 countries, representing 55 institutions and 17 European University Alliances.
Held under the theme “EMI and Plurilingualism for Global Higher Education: Strategies, Challenges and Opportunities”, the symposium provides a multidisciplinary forum for examining the evolving role of languages in higher education. As universities continue to internationalise, the event explores how English-Medium Instruction (EMI) and plurilingual practices can support broader institutional goals, including inclusion, academic excellence, teaching innovation, and global engagement.
Over three days, participants will exchange research findings, share practical experiences, and discuss strategies for implementing EMI and plurilingual approaches across diverse higher education contexts. Discussions will focus on the impact of these practices on student learning, teacher development, institutional identity, and international collaboration.
A dedicated thematic strand on Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) highlights the importance of developing plurilingual competences from the earliest stages of education. The symposium also addresses the growing role of artificial intelligence in multilingual learning environments, exploring both its potential to enhance access to knowledge and communication, and the ethical, pedagogical, and institutional challenges it presents for universities.
The programme features three plenary lectures, three interactive question-and-answer sessions, four round-table discussions, and 21 parallel sessions consisting of oral presentations and poster contributions.
Among the keynote speakers are:
- David Marsh, internationally recognised expert in multilingual education and language policy;
- Víctor Pavón Vázquez, specialist in bilingual and multilingual education;
- Sávio Siqueira, researcher in English as a Lingua Franca and language internationalisation.
The symposium also welcomes distinguished contributors including Sarah Breslin, Björn Kjellgren, and Cristian Aquino-Sterling, among others.
By bringing together experts from across Europe and beyond, the 2nd NEOLAiA International Symposium on Language Policy reinforces the Alliance’s commitment to fostering plurilingualism, intercultural understanding, and innovative educational practices. The event serves as an important platform for shaping future language policies and supporting more inclusive and internationally connected higher education systems.
