Opening speech Peter-Paul Verbeek  

In a packed auditorium, Rector Magnificus Peter-Paul Verbeek emphasized the importance of science as a connecting factor in the city, the country and society as a whole. He also spoke about community spirit, the university as a place where you can collectively acquire knowledge and insights.  

Next year, the UvA will start working on the new educational vision. An important aspect is the role of AI within it. A task force of scientists from the UvA and the VU has been asked to advise how AI can be responsibly integrated into education.  Read his speech (in Dutch).

Dies speech Margriet Schavemaker  

Margriet Schavemaker, artistic director of the Amsterdam Museum and professor of Media and Art in Museum Practice, delivered an ode to women, to the city and to two important institutions within it: the university and the museum. Read her speech (in Dutch).

Honorary doctorates awarded   

Liesbet Geris received the honorary doctorate for her pioneering, scientific work in the field of in-silico medicine and the Virtual Human Twin, and their integration into clinical applications.   

Steve McQueen and Biance Stigter received an honorary doctorate for the great social and historical value of their work, especially of their documentary “The Occupied City".   

Former chairman Geert ten Dam receives municipal award    

Geert ten Dam was presented with the Frans Banninck Cocqpenning by Deputy Mayor and Alderman of Amsterdam, Hester van Buren. This is an award of the city of Amsterdam for people who have dedicated themselves meritoriously in cultural, economic or social fields.