Virginia Commonwealth University and United Lisbon Education Hub Launch International Education Partnership

Lisbon, Portugal — 14 October 2025

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), USA, and the United Lisbon Education Hub (Edu Hub Lisbon), Portugal, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch a multi-layered, cross-border partnership that will unfold over the coming years. This agreement marks the beginning of a shared commitment to innovative educational collaboration aimed at enriching Lisbon’s ecosystem as a leading global destination for learning.

The partnership will explore a range of opportunities for academic and cultural programming and collaborative projects that foster new knowledge, creativity, and positive community impact. Beyond initiatives at the university level, the collaboration extends to United Lisbon International School, Edu Hub Lisbon’s founding educational partner and a member of the Dukes Education Group, which will play an integral role in bringing the partnership’s vision for inclusive, lifelong learning and upskilling to all age groups.

Chitra Stern, CEO of Edu Hub Lisbon, commented, “This agreement brings together two forward-thinking institutions with a shared vision for educational excellence, innovation, and global connection positioning Lisbon as a true hub for world-class learning.”

“This partnership reflects VCU’s commitment to shaping the future of global education through bold, interdisciplinary collaboration. By joining forces with Edu Hub Lisbon, we are not only expanding opportunities for learners and educators, but also contributing to Portugal’s emergence as a dynamic hub for international academic innovation and lifelong learning,” said Beverly Warren, interim provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

“This partnership exemplifies how innovation and education intersect to unlock global opportunity. By collaborating with Edu Hub Lisbon, we are connecting VCU’s strengths in interdisciplinary innovation with one of Europe’s most vibrant learning ecosystems. Together, we will empower learners of all ages to design solutions with impact—locally and globally,” said Garret Westlake, Vice Provost for Innovation and Strategic Design.

“VCU’s innovative and strategic partnership with Edu Hub Lisbon will provide students and faculty with a myriad of exciting research and experiential learning opportunities in an exceptional location,” said Jill Blondin, Vice Provost for Global Initiatives.

Over the next five years, VCU and Edu Hub Lisbon will work closely to co-create a robust partnership with impact across borders, disciplines, and educational levels aiming to deliver innovative educational and training opportunities for students and professionals in leading fields such as Design Thinking, Artificial Intelligence, and Entrepreneurship.

About Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)

Virginia Commonwealth University is a premier urban, public research university located in Richmond, Virginia, USA. Known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, VCU offers a diverse range of programs across a multitude of disciplines. The university is especially recognized for its leadership in the arts, entrepreneurship, health sciences, and design. With a culture that encourages creativity and real-world impact, VCU empowers students and faculty to tackle global challenges and lead in their fields.

Learn more at www.vcu.edu.

About United Lisbon Education Hub (Edu Hub Lisbon)

The United Lisbon Education Hub is an innovative, future-oriented ecosystem in Lisbon, Portugal, that brings together schools, entrepreneurs, and global institutions with a shared mission to transform education. Anchored by the United Lisbon International School (a member of the Dukes Education Group), and developed by the Martinhal Group, Edu Hub Lisbon is designed as a collaborative campus that nurtures lifelong learning, creativity, and sustainability. It serves as a platform for international partnerships and educational excellence across age groups and disciplines.

Learn more at www.eduhublisbon.com