CENTRAL is a vivid partnership between five renowned Central European universities, all located in the capitals of their home countries: Berlin, Budapest, Prague, Vienna, and Warsaw. Under the CENTRAL umbrella, diverse research and outreach activities take place, in all fields.
What we do within CENTRAL Network
CENTRAL conducts a wide range of research and educational activities. CENTRAL provides a platform for scientific discussion and academic and student exchange. By combining the efforts of the above-mentioned universities, this group raises the profile of academic discourse in Central and Eastern Europe both within Europe and beyond.
More information on the official website CENTRAL Network.
Themes of activities
The theme during the presidency of one of the member universities determines the program of cross-border discussions in partner institutions. The universities grouped in this network address issues of broader social or political significance, particularly for the Central European region. In response to the growing demand for universities to engage with the society of which they are a part, they are taking the debate beyond the academic sphere and opening it up to the wider public.
Since 2025, when Charles University took over the presidency of the CENTRAL network, the main theme has been: Connecting traditions and innovations in Central Europe.
2021 - 2024, during the presidency of the University of Vienna, the theme of the CENTRAL network's activities was: What unites or divides us.
Who and how you can join activities
There are many activities you can get involved in as part of the CENTRAL group.
One of these is the annual workshops for doctoral students. These workshops provide doctoral students with an opportunity to meet colleagues from other universities and, under the guidance of experienced academics, solve problems and address specific issues related to their research.
Every year, a call for proposals is announced for groups of researchers from universities affiliated with the CENTRAL network. The aim of the call is to support the establishment of new collaborations (including innovative teaching/training for young researchers) or to strengthen existing contacts.
LETNÍ ŠKOLA/CENTRAL Leadership Program
Students can also participate in CENTRAL network activity, summer school - CENTRAL Leadership Program.
CENTRAL Leadership program is an immersive program that offers leadership training for graduate and doctoral students across five cities, combining academic seminars with cultural experiences. Participants explore diverse realms such as politics, diplomacy and society, preparing them for leadership roles in Europe.
Where you can currently apply
Regitstration for the CENTRAL Joint Workshops usually opens in January.
Registration for the CENTRAL Leadership Program usually opens in February.
Follow the latest news in the CENTRAL Network on the website.
Who you can contact
Please direct any questions regarding CENTRAL network activities to .
