Ripple Expands University Blockchain and Research Initiative (UBRI) in Europe
Ripple, a prominent player in the blockchain and crypto sector, has recently announced the expansion of its University Blockchain and Research Initiative (UBRI) in Europe. This globally recognized initiative is dedicated to fostering academic research in blockchain and crypto, with the ultimate goal of nurturing the next generation of leaders in this field.
New European Partners Join UBRI
UBRI has welcomed four new European universities into its program, namely Trinity College Dublin (Ireland), EPITA (France), IE University (Spain), and University of Trento (Italy). These esteemed institutions will contribute to the advancement of blockchain education and research throughout Europe.
Investing in Europe’s Crypto Future
Since its establishment in 2018, UBRI has allocated over $11 million to its 14 European partners. This initiative aligns with Europe’s ambition to become a global crypto hub, particularly with the introduction of the Market in Crypto Assets (MiCA) legislation, aiming to provide regulatory clarity for the sector’s growth.
Equipping the Next Generation
Eric van Miltenburg, SVP Strategic Initiatives at Ripple, emphasizes the importance of equipping the next generation with the necessary knowledge and skills to harness the real-world utility of blockchain technology. He also highlights Europe’s potential to expedite this mission, given its regulatory clarity.
Preparing Students for the Regulation-Centric Crypto World
IE University, one of UBRI’s new partners, will host a three-day virtual asset regulation workshop. This event will focus on applied research, entrepreneurship, and corporate transformation, empowering students for the regulation-centric crypto world. Ikhlaq Sidhu, Dean at IE University, expresses enthusiasm about this collaboration, emphasizing the role of UBRI in shaping the future of virtual asset regulation.
Revitalizing the Centre for Blockchain Technologies (CBT)
Ripple has renewed its association with the Centre for Blockchain Technologies (CBT) at University College London (UCL). With UBRI’s support, the program, now named UK CBT, is expanding its resource network and reaching out to Birmingham and Edinburgh. Dr. Paolo Tasca, Founder and Director of UCL Centre for Blockchain Technologies, highlights the collaborative vision of positioning the UK as a global blockchain leader.
Amplifying the Innovative Potential of Blockchain
UK CBT will further support XRPL-related projects, offering XRPL workshops, accelerator programs, and backing conferences like UBRI Connect. These efforts aim to amplify the innovative potential of blockchain on an international scale.
Award-Winning XRPL Hackathon
Ripple is hosting its third annual Apex XRPL Developer Summit in Amsterdam, preceded by the XRPL Hackathon – Apex 2023. A collaborative team from UCL and University of Trento secured the first prize of $7k for their XRPL Charity project during this hackathon.
Ripple’s Integration of XRP Applications
Ripple has consistently integrated XRP applications, including The Giving Block’s acceptance of XRP for charitable donations, as reported by Blockchain.News.
Hot Take: Ripple’s UBRI Expands Europe’s Blockchain Education and Research, Nurturing Future Crypto Leaders
Ripple’s University Blockchain and Research Initiative (UBRI) is making significant strides in Europe, expanding its program to include prestigious universities and investing millions into blockchain education and research. By equipping the next generation with vital knowledge and skills, UBRI aims to harness the full potential of blockchain technology. With an emphasis on regulatory clarity and partnerships with leading educational institutions, UBRI is shaping the future of virtual asset regulation. Additionally, Ripple’s collaboration with the Centre for Blockchain Technologies (CBT) reaffirms its commitment to establishing the UK as a global blockchain leader. Through initiatives like XRPL workshops and hackathons, Ripple is driving innovation and showcasing the transformative power of blockchain on an international scale.