New generation of Wittenborg alumni will make a positive impact on their communities and the world

On Friday, 3 February, 63 students from 21 different countries graduated from their MBA, Msc and BBA programmes. The graduation show marked the official recognition of the academic achievements of students who completed their studies in the fourth block of the 2022/2023 academic year. The graduates were from the Wittenborg locations of Apeldoorn, Amsterdam and, for the first time, a student from Munich participated in the graduation show.

The ceremony took place in the Orpheus Theater and was attended by families of the students, friends and faculty members. Wittenborg President Peter Birdsall delivered the welcoming address, congratulating the students on the successful completion of their studies and thanking the faculty for their support and guidance. Education expert and WUAS Advisory Council member Paul Zevenbergen also spoke some fine words of wisdom to the students.

Maintaining international relationships

The event was a mix of traditional and contemporary elements. Students received their diplomas from their teachers, while the ceremony was graced by speeches from some of the graduates. Wittenborg had the honour of welcoming Ugandan ambassador Mirjam Blaak during the graduation show. Her presence was greatly appreciated and emphasises the important value that Wittenborg ceremonies have in maintaining international relations.
 
Peter Birdsall concluded the official part of the graduation ceremony with some fine words of advice. He spoke about the importance of education in today's rapidly changing world and encouraged the graduates to use their newly acquired knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on their communities and the world.
 
Following the ceremony, the graduates and their families gathered for a reception where they had the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments, catch up with each other and take pictures. When asked what the students will miss now that they are Wittenborg alumni, several touching and heartfelt answers came: "I will miss all the support from faculty and the great educational experience we had," says MSc alumnus Rawal Shadab Ahmed from Pakistan. Iranian BBA graduate Shirin Hiradsfar says: "I'm going to miss the project weeks, which are a lot of fun. Also, I'm going to miss my friends." Oluwafemi Omoyeni Olusanya is looking forward to seeing his family in Nigeria again now that he has graduated from Wittenborg: "But for now, let's have fun. I have graduated and have big plans for the future."

The winter graduation ceremony at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences was a memorable and meaningful event for all, celebrating the graduates' academic achievements and recognising their hard work and dedication. WUAS looks forward to staying connected with its graduates and supporting them in their professional journeys, as they will always remain part of the Wittenborg family.

WUP 07/02/2023
by Niels Otterman
©WUAS Press