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University of Amsterdam Strategy

Strategy for 2027 – 2032

The UvA strategy provides direction: what we stand for, what we value and where we aim to go. This course has been developed with our staff and students, and with input from societal partners, to ensure our university is ready for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Together, we achieve more

The UvA community comprises around 50,000 people. Together we are one UvA: a community of thinkers and doers — students, researchers, lecturers, professional services staff and the representative bodies. Our strength lies in the multitude of perspectives, experiences and talents. This sum of perspectives is what truly makes the UvA the UvA.

Download the strategy (PDF, 8 p.p.)
Our strategic ambitions

1. A great place to work and study

The UvA aims to be a university where all students and staff feel at home, develop and excel. A strong academic community is not incidental; it is the foundation of everything we do. When people feel safe, seen and connected, space opens up for curiosity, debate, experimentation and talent development.

2. A distinctive and respected knowledge partner

The UvA is rooted in society and connected to the world. Our knowledge gains meaning through collaboration with societal partners, governments, businesses, cultural institutions and other knowledge organisations. We build long‑term relationships, carefully assess our collaborations against our values and principles as an ethical framework, and strengthen our visibility as a reliable and engaged knowledge partner. We do not operate solely from our own agenda; we actively align with the questions and needs arising from society.

3. We achieve societal impact through world‑leading research

The UvA wants to excel scientifically and contribute to solving complex societal challenges. Ground‑breaking, world‑leading research and societal relevance are inextricably linked. Strong disciplines and interdisciplinary collaboration provide the foundation: fundamental research leads to new knowledge and insights, which we connect to societal applications.

4. We value and develop all talent

The UvA’s strength lies in its people: students, researchers, lecturers and professional services staff. We are building a culture in which different talents, roles and contributions are recognised and appreciated. This means looking beyond traditional academic yardsticks and creating space for diverse forms of development, collaboration and impact. In this way, we strengthen our community and ensure that talent can grow and thrive.