OREANDA-NEWS. The Rector of Tallinn University of Technology (TUT) Academician Jaak Aaviksoo and the Rector of the Belgian LU Leuven University Prof. Dr. Rik Torfs signed the memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation between the universities.

The memorandum was signed for the period of three years and provides for cooperation in the field of research and development, exchange of students and lecturers and organisation of joint seminars and scientific confrernces.

"TUT with its 12 000 students, 2100 employees and more than 70 000 alumni plays undoubtedly a key role in Estonia's future, but our goal is also to become an internationally influential centre of innovation. I believe that TUT and the University of Leuven have much to learn from each other, " TUT Rector Academician Jaak Aaviksoo said.

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven was founded in 1425, making it Belgium's first university. The strongly research-oriented KU Leuven provides education to 42 500 students, from among whom 18% are international students. KU Leuven is the largest university in Belgium as for the number of students. According to international rankings, KU Leuven is considered to be a very strong university (35th according to Times Higher Education, 82nd according to QS World University Ranking).

In addition to Tallinn University of Technology, the Rector of KU Leuven Prof. Dr. Rik Torfs signed a memorandum of understanding also with the University of Tartu.