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Opening Academic Year

The new academic year 2025/2026 kicks off on 1 September with the Opening Academic Year. This year's theme is 'Global Citizens'. 

What does it mean to be connected to the world around you? In a time of increasing divisions, the need for connection is greater than ever. Together with several speakers, we will talk about the power and necessity of world citizenship at global, national and local levels.

Keynote by Sigrid Kaag

Together with Sigrid Kaag, former minister and deputy prime minister and until recently UN coordinator for Gaza, we look at the need for global citizenship in today's world. Kaag talks about her experience in international policy and the responsibility of individual countries and citizens for global issues.

Then, we talk to VU scholars about world citizenship as academic practice. Clemens Kaupa, lecturer in European and climate law, shows how climate law research contributes to societal impact at the European level.

Finally, we look closer to home, with examples from Amsterdam neighbourhoods: what does it mean to take responsibility for your immediate environment? A discussion led by Tanja Jadnanansing, chair of the executive committee of the Amsterdam-Zuidoost district, will reveal how global themes such as inequality of opportunity and social justice are taking shape locally.

After the meeting, we will raise a glass together to an inspiring academic year. Will we see you there?

Opening Academic Year
When: Monday 1 September 
Time: 15:30-16:45
Where: Aula, Main Building
Language: Dutch

Programme

  • Walk-in from 15:10
  • Cortège
  • Opening by Margrethe Jonkman, president of the Executive Board
  • Keynote speech by Sigrid Kaag
  • Intermezzo by Griffioen Dance Crew
  • Global citizenship according to VU researchers, with among others Clemens Kaupa
  • Global citizenship in Amsterdam, led by Tanja Jadnanansing
  • Closure and drinks

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