The Institute for Cooperation between University and Labour Movement is a partnership between the trade unions and the University of Antwerp. ISUA’s objective is to support the trade unions in their consultations and negotiations with the employers. Simultaneously, the trade unions’ field experience adds realism to the university’s educational programme and research practice.

The Institute concretizes its mission through three core activities:

• Education and Training in Socio-Economic Policy (VOSEB)
• Workshops and brief courses
• Research

In ISUA’s Board of Directors the trade unions present topics and issues on which they would like academics to elaborate and comment.

Depending on the topic or issue the Institute then proceeds to organize a two-year VOSEB course, workshops or research.