We are delighted to invite you to join us in celebrating the Opening of the Academic Year 2023-2024. On this day, we will explore how to best prepare students for a world where climate change, ageing, and artificial intelligence play significant roles.
The Opening of the Academic year, themed ‘The future of higher education’, will coincide with a momentous occasion—the 110th anniversary of Erasmus University. In these challenging times of societal change and complexity, we recognize the need for education that embraces multiple perspectives, strengthens resilience, and prepares us for an ever-evolving world.
Speakers
The Opening of the Academic Year is taking place on Monday, September 4th and will feature renowned speakers who will immerse you in the world of tomorrow:
Marleen Stikker: A digital pioneer, director of Waag Amsterdam, and founder of 'The Digital City' (Unesco-Recognized Digital Heritage). She advocates for open technologies as a means to tackle societal challenges: 'If You Can't Open It, You Don't Own It.'
Ed Brinksma: Chairman of the Erasmus University Rotterdam Executive Board and Professor of Computer Science (University of Twente).
Vanessa Abel: Program Director of ErasmusX, leading a team of educational innovators at the forefront of boundary-pushing initiatives and versatile education.
Adding to the excitement, we will have the legendary Hermes House Band providing the music—a party band with deep links and history intertwined with Erasmus University Rotterdam. Hosting the ceremony will be Nizar El Manouzi, an alumnus and presenter of the long-running Dutch TV show 'Klokhuis.'
Together, we can make a difference
As a community, we possess invaluable knowledge, experience, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a vast global network of partners. Together, we can make a difference. Numerous projects exemplify our commitment to being at the centre of society and working collaboratively with it. Now, it is time to determine how we want to shape the future of education. Where are we now, where do we want to go, and how do we get there?
This conversation is essential, and we invite you to be a part of it. Please join us and sign up now by emailing us at alumnievents@eur.nl.
For further details about the program and the speakers, please visit eur.nl/en/opening.
Here are the practical details you need to know
Date and time: Monday, September 4th, 2023, from 15:00 to 16:30 hrs. Location: Laurenskerk, Rotterdam. The cortège through the city centre will commence from Erasmus University College, leading to the ceremony at the Laurenskerk, which will start promptly at 15:00 hrs. Following the ceremony, there will be a reception at the same venue.
For those unable to attend in person, the Opening of the Academic Year will be live-streamed and accessible to the public. The ceremony will be conducted in Dutch, with simultaneous interpretation available in English.
Accessibility is important to us, and we are pleased to inform you that the Laurenskerk Rotterdam is fully wheelchair accessible. If you require any assistance or guidance, please contact us at ceremonies@eur.nl.
Please note that the whole ceremony will be in Dutch and translation will be provided.
Should you have any questions or comments regarding this invitation, please reach out to us at alumnievents@eur.nl
We eagerly look forward to celebrating the Opening Academic Year with you—a momentous occasion that marks the beginning of a transformative journey in higher education.