This programme represents an inquiry into how European universities must adapt in order to lead the knowledge revolution. The Europaeum is undertaking a three-year Future of European Universities Project, supported by a major grant DaimlerChrysler Services AG, to study the opportunities, conditions and methods the will enable European universities to play a leading role in the ongoing Knowledge Revolution.

Through discussing how knowledge is now being produced, disseminated and acquired, questions are being posed on the kinds of partnerships universities need to make, and with whom, the kind of `new' university needed to meet the challenges of an age of globalisation and lifelong learning, and how this `new' model compares with the existing global leaders. The project aims to answer three key questions:

• What are the purposes and future role of the European university in the face of the Knowledge Revolution?
• What changes must take place to allow these purposes to be fulfilled?
• How best can the Universities deliver their new role?

The project's recommendations, aimed at universities, employers, funding agencies and governments, but above all at society as a whole, driving forward the continuing process of adaptation and change, will be widely disseminated. Made possible and supported by DaimlerChrysler Services.