Graph C*-algebras are analytical objects blessed with a tangible structure and classification theory derived from their combinatorial origins. Through the analysis of directed graphs, including higher-rank graphs or quantum graphs, one can visualize and explore them in intuitive ways lacking elsewhere. They serve as strikingly efficient models for key open problems in noncommutative geometry and topology, as well as in C*-dynamical systems. They also provide a focal point for the much-needed extension of the celebrated Elliott classification program to non-simple C*-algebras. The main objective of the project is to achieve a critical mass for a successful attack on these problems by combining the weight of strong research groups inside and outside the EU, using graph algebras as a unifying vehicle for hitherto unconnected areas of mathematics. The synergy of these new and innovative connections should allow us to develop and apply brand new methods unavailable otherwise. Furthermore, researchers using graph C*-algebras for applications in adjacent fields are likely to provide groundbreaking insights making impact way beyond graph algebras themselves. In particular, we expect to develop an interdisciplinary dimension involving quantum computing. We aim to achieve our objective through networking and transfer of knowledge. Between twenty six partners from the EU and North America participating in the network, there are worldwide leading scientific centers. Among about seventy researchers involved in the project, there are famous experts and extremely efficient mentors of young researchers. Combining them with student members of the network yields a top human-resource infrastructure. An important objective is to take advantage of that potential by creating new career opportunities. Another tremendous asset of the network is a unique opportunity it gives to tie new and lasting connections for successful transcontinental scientific collaboration.

The role of regional governments in promoting integrated lifelong learning policies has been recognised as very important since many years and many studies and initiatives have been undertaken to conceptualise and review good practices and policy arrangements (such as CEDEFOP, OECD, German Learning region Programme, RELL project, LLHUB project and others). However, the policy context has not always been favourable to a comprehensive lifelong learning approach (not merely focused on professional development of employed workers), nor to enhance the role of Regions in the broad education field. This dichotomy between discourse and praxis has generated a fragmentary situation, in which some regions across Europe continue to be seriously committed to lifelong learning but, lacking continuing and reliable financial and political support, are unable to undertake sustainable exchange of experience among them and to systematically compare their progresses and learn from each other.The present proposal aims to design an open collaborative platform to enhance and compare Regional Lifelong Learning Policies: the COMORELP Policy Lab Platform, capitalising the results of previous initiatives and EU Projects, developing a coherent conceptual and operational framework. These results will be achieved with a strict focus on building the sustainability conditions for the monitoring exercise, thus overcoming the fragmented situation described above. The concrete objectives of the project are the following:· To organise a longitudinal review of LLL policies in each participating region, including a multi-stakeholders self-assessment exercise;· To review and synthesise existing contributions on regional lifelong learning and “Learning Regions” approaches to develop a new context-sensitive comparison/benchmarking platform;· To pilot a data collection approach to feed and validate the system among the pilot Partner Regions· To organise regional and European inter-regional Round Table to exchange and reflect upon practices in the field of Lifelong Learning and lay the foundations for inter-regional cooperation and common LLL policies· To promote the participation in the COMORELP Policy Lab Platform of new Regions and to develop a sustainability action plan.· To draw lessons from the process, both in terms of quality assurance and in terms of policy recommendations.The project will create the opportunity, for Regional Governments who are committed to Lifelong Learning, the opportunity to review, compare and enhance their policies through the systematic collaboration with other Regions and the establishment of a mutual learning process involving stakeholders and national/EU policy-makers, thus contributing to a renewed dialogue on lifelong learning at the EU level, also in relation with the first point of the recently agreed European Pillar of Social Rights. The expected results and impact envisaged and potential longer term benefits such as increasing participant awareness on the Lifelong Learning policies upon regional bases and make comparisons to rebuild or reorganize their own policies by detecting deficiencies or gaining alternative perspective from other contributors such as stakeholders, other regions or policy makers. Existing data collected on the platform will be the starting point for further evolvements and extensions by the participants. The COMORELP Policy Lab Platform aimed to evolve after the end of the project and build a broader community of users, coming from all other European and Third countries, stakeholders and regional bodies not originaly involved in the project.