Project Week in Focus: Wittenborg Students Explore Sales Skills, Sustainability and Gender Equality

https://www.wittenborg.eu/project-week-focus-wittenborg-students-explore-sales-skills-sustainability-and-gender-equality.htm

Applied Learning in Action: Sales, Sustainability and Gender Equality 

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences’ December 2025 Project Week brought together students across Amsterdam and Apeldoorn for a period of applied learning, reflection and collaboration. Across different programmes, students worked on real-life challenges related to sales and communication, sustainability and smart cities and gender equality.  

Developing Sales Skills with Insights Explore  

MBA and MBM students took part in a Project Week led by Tim Birdsall, trainer, facilitator and consultant in leadership, communication, negotiation and sales and former Sales Director at Wittenborg. Students were asked to create and present a sales pitch for the tool Insights Explore, applying sales theory in a practical setting.  

As part of the project, students completed the Insights Explore assessment themselves and developed recommendations on how the tool could be used in project work and group assignments. The final pitches were presented in a simulated professional sales environment.  

Mozhdeh Rafati, MBA student, highlighted the practical learning experience:  

“We learned how to sell effectively, becoming more business-like in our approach and applying business skills. Honestly, the way Tim taught us proved to be more valuable and helpful than the actual test; his words and beliefs behind the test had a greater impact than we initially realised.”  

Shahrzad Abbasi, MBM student, emphasised teamwork and confidence-building:  

“My overall highlight of the project week was collaborating closely with my team and seeing how our ideas came together into a clear and structured sales pitch. It was motivating to move from initial uncertainty to a final result we were confident presenting.”  

She also reflected on the value of the sales exercise:  

“The most valuable skill I gained was learning how to structure a message clearly for an audience and focus on value rather than details.”  

Sustainability and Smart Cities at the Johan Cruijff ArenA  

MBA students also participated in a sustainability-focused Project Week organised by Senior Lecturer Amy Abdou, which included a study visit to the Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam. During the visit, students explored how the stadium uses new technologies related to sustainability, smart energy systems and data-driven operations.  

Students examined innovations such as renewable energy generation, smart energy management and the ArenA’s energy storage system using second-life electric vehicle batteries, which helps reduce pressure on the city’s energy grid during peak demand.  

Nasrin Bolouki, MBA student, described the experience from both an urbanism and business perspective:  

“The stadium stands out not just as a sports venue, but as a multifunctional piece of urban infrastructure.”  

She added:  

“From an MBA viewpoint, the ArenA demonstrates how innovation, partnerships and data-driven management can enhance economic viability while aligning with social and environmental goals.”  

For their final presentations, student teams shared their research approach, findings and key learnings. Bolouki’s group focused on thermal resilience and energy storage, exploring how Phase Change Materials (PCM) could help reduce peak thermal demand and support the ArenA’s long-term sustainability goals.

Gender Equality Across Programmes  

Alongside these project weeks, EBA students conducted interviews focused on gender equality, exploring how inclusion and equality are addressed in professional settings. Bachelor’s students explored gender equality in areas such as leadership, pay equity, entrepreneurship, marketing and technology, using data and case studies to develop practical recommendations.  

In this case, students also worked in groups to create research-based poster presentations linked to gender equality. These posters were presented and reviewed during the Project Challenge, covering a range of topics related to gender equality in business and society. 

WUP 14/01/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Wittenborg Gains Insights into Erasmus+ Collaboration and Strategic Funding at Higher Education Day

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-gains-insights-erasmus-collaboration-and-strategic-funding-higher-education-day.htm

Aydan Holtrigter Explores Erasmus+ Opportunities at Higher Education Day

On 4 December, Aydan Holtrigter, Research Centre Manager at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences, attended the Higher Education Day at Woerden Castle, an annual Erasmus+ event for Dutch higher education institutions.

The event brought together around 100 higher education professionals to explore how Erasmus+ can support resilience, innovation and European collaboration.

Erasmus+ as a strategic driver

The day opened with a keynote by Jorrit Snijder, President of the Executive Board of Breda University of Applied Sciences, who addressed the role of higher education institutions in responding to digitalisation and artificial intelligence. He emphasised that AI literacy is becoming an essential competence for students as AI will increasingly be part of professional practice.

Collaboration through BIPs and European Universities

Holtrigter also attended the session ‘Powerful collaborations with Blended Intensive Programmes and European Universities’, delivered by Lydia Altenburg and Larissa Sluijk from the National Agency Erasmus+ (Nuffic).  

The session focused on how Blended Intensive Programmes (BIPs) can be integrated into curriculum and how they can be used to strengthen international cooperation in a flexible and inclusive way. European University Alliances were presented as a framework for long-term strategic collaboration between higher education institutions across Europe.

Growing with fewer resources: a practical case

The second session attended, ‘Growing together with fewer resources: a practical case from Erasmus MC’, was presented by Michiel Louwerens of Nuffic and Raoul Tan from Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam.  

This session demonstrated how Erasmus+ funding can be strategically combined with other European and national funding schemes. Using concrete examples, Erasmus MC showed how an Erasmus+ programme can support sustainable partnerships, international mobility and capacity building while making efficient use of limited resources.

"The sessions highlighted that Erasmus+ offers opportunities beyond student and staff mobility alone," Holtrigter said. "Instruments such as BlPs, European University Alliances and the strategic combination of Erasmus+ with other funding sources can support international partnerships and applied research in a sustainable way."  

The programme concluded with a plenary session on the upcoming Erasmus+ programme 2028–2034, followed by a networking reception.  

Holtrigter noted that "the insights gained from the sessions will inform Wittenborg's strategy for international collaboration, innovative teaching and research partnerships, helping the school continue to strengthen its global connections and impact."

WUP 12/01/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press

Tags
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Erasmus+
#research
#ResearchCentre
#Internationalisation
#Diversity

From Entrepreneur to Influential Recruiter: Olawale Olukunga's Wittenborg Journey

https://www.wittenborg.eu/entrepreneur-influential-recruiter-olawale-olukungas-wittenborg-journey.htm

How Olawale Olukunga Built an International Career Through Determination and Adaptability

Olawale Olukunga, a graduate of Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences, is a strong example of how determination, adaptability and an entrepreneurial mindset can shape an international career. Originally from Nigeria, he completed an MBA (Master of Business Administration) in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Wittenborg, building on his academic background in entrepreneurship and project management.  

Before joining Wittenborg, Olawale had already gained experience as an entrepreneur and project manager, holding both a BA (Bachelor of Arts) and an MSc (Master of Science). His decision to study in the Netherlands was driven by Wittenborg’s admission process, which allowed him to focus quickly on his academic and professional goals.  

While Olawale describes his studies at Wittenborg as straightforward, relocating to a new country was a major life change.

“Moving to a new country, not knowing anyone and starting all over again was a bit challenging,” he explains. “I had to stay determined and focused.”  

During his studies, Olawale developed key competencies such as presentation skills and project management, which continue to play an important role in his career. A defining moment of his time at Wittenborg was his internship, which he describes as a turning point in his professional development.  

“My internship as an International Partnership Assistant at Wittenborg was the highlight of my studies,” he says. “I learned a great deal from my manager at the time, Iryna Bernatska, and it was one of my best experiences.”  

The international academic environment further strengthened his people management skills, complementing experience he had already gained in Nigeria.  

Today, Olawale works at Independent Recruiters Groep as a Recruitment Consultant, a role he secured through an event organised by Wittenborg. His main responsibility is recruiting professionals, and he has quickly become an important contributor to the expansion of the organisation’s Life Sciences label, despite having no previous background in the field.  

“I have never chosen the easy path,” Olawale says. “I built something myself, took risks and learned by doing. I did it as an entrepreneur and shoe designer, and today I am doing it as a recruiter.”  

This mindset shapes his approach to recruitment. Having experienced what it means to start over and rely on trust, he brings empathy, commitment and attentiveness to every process. His positive attitude and cheerful personality have also made a strong impact on his team.  

Looking ahead, Olawale plans to continue developing professionally while strengthening his leadership skills. He credits Wittenborg’s international environment with giving him the foundation to integrate confidently into the workforce.  

His advice to current students is clear:

“Know the main reason why you are here and follow through with your plans. Don’t get distracted. Put in the work.”  

With his drive, adaptability and people-focused approach, Olawale Olukunga is widely regarded as a strong candidate for the title of Most Influential Recruiter 2025, reflecting both his professional impact and his commitment to growth.

WUP 09/01/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
#Internationalisation
#internationalstudent
#Diversity
#Alumni
#highered

Why Talent Development Is Essential in Today’s Organisations: Insights from Imane Jelloul

https://www.wittenborg.eu/why-talent-development-essential-todays-organisations-insights-imane-jelloul.htm

MBA Students Explore Leadership and Talent Development in Apeldoorn

Wittenborg recently hosted Imane Jelloul, Head of HR & Communication at ArcelorMittal Europe Flat Products, for a guest lecture on talent development and leadership in global organisations.  

Drawing on over 20 years of experience in the steel industry and international HR, Imane shared her journey from leading operations on industrial sites to heading strategic HR initiatives across global companies. “I am an HR and industrial leader in the steel industry, organisational transformation, and leadership development across global and multicultural environments,” she explained. She also highlighted her contributions to major projects, including the launch of Morocco’s first modern steelmaking plant.  

Throughout the session, Imane emphasised that leadership starts with self-leadership. “Before leading teams, projects, or organisations, we must learn to lead ourselves with clarity, purpose, and integrity,” she said. She encouraged students to see leadership as a mindset rather than a title. “In a global and changing world, your greatest strengths will be your humanity, your ability to connect with others, and your commitment to continuous learning.”  

Imane explored why talent development is crucial for organisations today. “No transformation—digital, organisational, or industrial—can succeed without people who are prepared and empowered,” she said.  

Drawing on her experience in multinational environments, she shared insights on building leadership pipelines, strengthening succession planning, and fostering resilient and inclusive cultures. She illustrated these points with real-world industrial examples, including organisational design, cultural transformation initiatives, and coaching programmes.  

The lecture was very interactive. Students asked questions about career transitions, leadership readiness, and how smaller organisations can develop talent without significant financial investment. “Even in smaller companies, you can implement effective talent development approaches based on coaching, peer learning, and structured feedback,” Imane advised. Faculty feedback highlighted how much they had learned about talent development practices in the steel industry, reinforcing the value of connecting academic learning with practical experience.  

In closing, Imane offered advice for aspiring leaders: “Cultivate self-leadership first. Build strong interpersonal and communication skills. Seek diverse experiences early. Stay open to continuous learning. Look for mentors and role models.” She reminded students that leadership is not a title but a way of thinking and acting. “It is always a privilege to connect academic perspectives with real-life experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the development of the next generation of leaders.”  

WUP 07/01/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
#Internationalisation
#internationalstudent
#Diversity
#highered
#apeldoorn

Whispers of Magic: Wittenborg Student Releases Short Film Online

https://www.wittenborg.eu/whispers-magic-wittenborg-student-releases-short-film-online.htm

Sara Seyed Azizi’s Animation Tells Story of Young Woman Dealing with Anxiety

The beautiful short film ‘Whispers of Magic’, created by Wittenborg MBM student Sara Seyed Azizi, is now available on YouTube for everyone to enjoy. Produced in 2024, the film centres on a young woman struggling with anxiety and stress, who escapes into an imaginary world where she becomes a child version of herself.  

The story is inspired by Sara’s own feelings of frustration when her visa to the UK was unexpectedly denied, forcing her to abandon her plans to study for a bachelor's degree in Games Art at the University of the Arts, London. 

To create ‘Whispers of Magic’, Sara used Unreal Engine and other 3D computer graphics software, building on her previous experience with those tools. The film was screened in various festivals across countries including the Netherlands, Italy, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, India and Brazil. It won awards at the Amsterdam New Cinema Film Festival, Stockholm City Film Festival, Portugal Indie Film Festival, Kollywood International Film Festival and Rohip International Film Festival, as well as an Honourable Mention at the UK Film Awards.  

For Sara, art is as much about self-expression as it is about connecting with others. “I’m happy that the people who have seen ‘Whispers of Magic’ enjoyed it and connected with it. The main reason we create is to connect with the world around us, and that essential element can’t be ignored. I don’t think I’ll ever be the kind of artist who cares about sales or attention; for me, what matters is my own feeling and taste in creating the piece,” she says.

 Whispers of Magic: Wittenborg Student Releases Short Film Online 
The student notes that she would like to develop other artistic projects for different media, including games. “I’ve always dreamed of creating a full video game based on the first book of The Chronicles of Narnia, but to make that happen, I’d need to build a complete team, so that’s something for the future.” 

Sara is also passionate about literature and has been working on two books for years, one in the crime genre and the other in fantasy. “I feel that now might be the right time to publish the crime novel; it tells the story of a lawyer who lost his family as a child during a revolutionary uprising in his country. Twenty years later, he receives an anonymous letter from someone who claims to have information about the person who murdered his family.” 

She encourages emerging artists to be authentic and bring their visions to life. “You don’t need to be afraid of failure, of not having enough viewers or not being liked by everyone. Most great artists weren’t even recognised until after their death, and the true value of art doesn’t lie in how many people see it. My advice to all emerging artists is this: bring every pattern of your imagination to life, even the strange ones.” 

WUP 05/01/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG3: Good Health and Well-being
#Internationalisation
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland

In the Spotlight: Wittenborg Graduate Rosita Sayyar

https://www.wittenborg.eu/spotlight-wittenborg-graduate-rosita-sayyar.htm

How Rosita Sayyar is Shaping Brand Success at CECO Environmental Corporation

Rosita Sayyar, originally from Iran, has successfully navigated the path from a bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering to becoming a Marketing Specialist in the Netherlands. Now living in Hilversum, she graduated from Wittenborg in 2025 with a degree in Digital Marketing and Communication and has since built an inspiring career. 

Why Wittenborg and the Netherlands? 

Rosita chose Wittenborg for its flexible intake system—six entries per year—which made planning her move and registration easier. She was also drawn to the culture and “vibe” of the Netherlands, which resonated with her. 

Overcoming Challenges 

Moving to a new country comes with its challenges. For Rosita, the biggest hurdle was finding housing. “For renting a house, you need a work contract, and as a student, it’s hard to find a good place you can call home,” she recalls. After four months of searching, she finally found a comfortable apartment in Apeldoorn, near Wittenborg. Her advice to fellow students: “Don’t give up and try your best; all your efforts will pay off when the time comes!” 

Academic and Professional Growth 

During her time at Wittenborg, Rosita honed key skills in presentation, public speaking, and clear communication. One lesson from a lecturer left a lasting impression: “You should learn to ask for help when you need it! People cannot read your mind. Until you ask, they cannot understand that you need support.” 

Rosita also gained practical experience quickly. Just three months after arriving in the Netherlands, she secured a six-month internship, which led to a part-time role. By the time she completed her thesis, she was hired full-time as a Marketing Specialist at CECO Environmental Corporation, where she now manages three different brands, overseeing event management, social media, and websites. She credits Wittenborg with equipping her with skills in business management, market analysis, and strategic thinking from multiple perspectives. 

Looking Ahead 

Rosita’s future plans include exploring how AI affects future digital marketing and changes the customer. She says Wittenborg helped broaden her horizons and encouraged her to think outside the box. 

Her advice to current students is simple but powerful: “Be concise about what you want, stick to your goal, and do everything necessary to achieve it.”

WUP 02/01/2025 
by Erene Roux
©WUAS Press

Tags

#Alumni
#internationalstudent
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#Internationalisation
#Diversity

Students Explore Gender Equality in Business and Society During December Project Week

https://www.wittenborg.eu/students-explore-gender-equality-business-and-society-during-december-project-week.htm

Students Showcase Innovative Solutions Through Posters

From 15 to 17 December 2025, bachelor’s students came together for Wittenborg’s December Block Project Week, placing gender equality at the centre of business and societal debate. Built around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) #5: Gender Equality, the three-day programme challenged students to critically examine real-world inequalities and develop research-driven solutions that promote inclusion, equity and sustainable impact.  

Throughout the Project Week, students explored gender equality across a wide range of organisational and societal contexts, including leadership, pay equity, entrepreneurship, marketing and technology. Working with data and case studies, students applied analytical, creative and strategic thinking to propose actionable recommendations aligned with the targets of SDG 5.    

Keynotes and Expert Perspectives  

The Project Week opened on 15 December at Wittenborg’s Spoorstraat campus with an introductory session, followed by a welcome address from Wittenborg President Peter Birdsall. The programme featured a keynote speech by Noha Shafik, who engaged students in discussions around purpose, values and wellbeing.  

Reflecting on her interaction with the students, Shafik praised their engagement and curiosity. “Your energy and vibe were amazing. The deep, insightful questions made me genuinely happy and reminded me why I love these conversations,” she said.  

She explained that the discussions strongly aligned with her mission to raise awareness about discovering one’s values and purpose, staying connected to one’s authentic self and understanding how this supports wellbeing and life choices. Shafik emphasised her commitment to continuing this message across universities, companies, schools and communities.  

The keynote was followed by a panel introduction featuring Lucinda Douglas, Awura Abena Simpe, Robert Muster and Tim Birdsall, who later contributed video reflections on gender equality. They shared insights on leadership, organisational culture and policy in advancing gender equality within the workplace and beyond.  

Later, Simpe, a soft skills expert specialising in Gen Z and Gen Alpha, highlighted the importance of an intersectional approach to gender equality.  

She noted that women are not a uniform group and that differences in culture, age and neurodiversity must be considered when designing inclusive strategies. Simpe also stressed the growing importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, arguing that while artificial intelligence continues to develop, the ability to connect with and manage people will remain a key leadership advantage.  

She encouraged students to focus on creating consistent and strategic impact, emphasising that progress is most effective when pursued collaboratively.  

Douglas addressed the role of interpersonal skills in driving meaningful change. She highlighted the importance of challenging existing attitudes around gender equality and encouraged men to actively support and advocate for women.  

Douglas advised students to take ownership of their personal and professional journeys, acknowledging that while progress can be challenging, meaningful change begins by taking the first step and “starting to write your own book”.  

Birdsall emphasised the value of seeking diverse perspectives, encouraging students to look beyond their own viewpoints. He highlighted the importance of humility and openness, reminding participants that engaging with perspectives different from their own is essential to building inclusive and balanced conversations.

Research-Driven Group Work and Poster Presentations  

On 16 December, students worked in assigned groups to develop research-driven posters aligned with specific targets of SDG 5. The final day was dedicated to finalising and presenting these posters during the Project Challenge, where they were evaluated by a jury.  

The poster presentations covered a broad range of topics related to gender equality in business and society. These included how organisations address harmful cultural practices, gender diversity in Fortune 500 companies with strategies to enhance representation and corporate initiatives to prevent workplace harassment, with examples from companies such as Amazon and Unilever.  

Other projects examined microfinance for women and how access to credit empowers women, as well as solutions proposed by global leaders through corporate compliance and governance.  

Additional posters focused on corporate strategies supporting work–life balance and caregiving responsibilities, universal access to reproductive health and the creation of safe spaces for women, equal rights to economic resources and the role of law and policy in advancing gender equality. 

Together, the projects highlighted the complexity of gender equality and demonstrated the need for multifaceted and context-specific approaches to achieving gender equality. 

WUP 19/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG5: Gender Equality
#projectweeks
#Internationalisation
#internationalstudent
#Diversity
#Ethics
#apeldoorn
#research

Festive Fun and Holiday Cheer: Wittenborg Wraps Up 2025

https://www.wittenborg.eu/festive-fun-and-holiday-cheer-wittenborg-wraps-2025.htm

Wittenborg Celebrates 2025 with Festive Gatherings in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences wrapped up 2025 with two festive year-end events in Apeldoorn and Amsterdam, bringing together students, staff and alumni for music, drinks, dancing and community celebrations.

On 17 December, Wittenborg hosted its annual Christmas Drink Event at the Old Irish Pub in Apeldoorn. The gathering followed the conclusion of the SDG Gender Equality themed Project Week in the December block and began shortly after students completed their poster competition assessments. As one of Wittenborg’s well-established events, the evening focused on community spirit, holiday cheer and informal networking.

Sophia Faraji, External Relations & Events Manager, said the event “captured a wonderful sense of togetherness and celebration. It was great to see everyone relaxed and enjoying themselves, as it truly reflected the spirit of the season.”

The evening also served as the platform to announce the new Student Representatives. The election, held earlier in December, appointed Jasmine Shaw, Shelly Anand and Arshia Baharloueiyan as the top-voted representatives.

Shaw said, “I had a fantastic time. The Christmas lights sparkled and the energy of students and staff was high. It’s always such a good vibe when we can all be together in a positive and casual environment after working hard at project week.”

Baharloueiyan, who also dressed up as Santa, shared, “Playing Santa was a blast. Putting on the costume and getting into character instantly changed the mood, and the reactions from everyone made it even better. It was impossible not to smile the whole time.”

Asked about the party overall, he added, “The party was amazing! Great vibes, great music, and lots of happy faces. Everything came together perfectly and it was a proper university celebration.”

On the highlight of the evening, he said, “Definitely the interactions with students — the laughs, photos, and festive energy. Seeing everyone enjoy themselves and fully embrace the Christmas spirit was the highlight for me.”

In Amsterdam, Wittenborg closed the year with a DJ Night Party on 12 December 2025 at ClinkNOORD, hosted by Clink Hostels. The event brought together students, staff, and alumni for an evening of music, dancing, and casual socialising.

Dadi Chen, Deputy Head of School of Business, said it was great having alumni join the event, noting the enthusiasm of students who were keen to ask questions. “What an amazing night! We are still buzzing from the energy and happiness shared at the recent party, bringing together our brilliant alumni, staff, and students.”

Wittenborg alumna and Financial Administrator Amal Obi Orm added, “The DJ Party in Amsterdam was a wonderful way to close the year. I really enjoyed meeting staff, connecting with new and old students, and sharing fun moments together. Dancing, enjoying drinks, and playing games with both students and staff made the event lively and memorable.”

EBA Amsterdam student Ahd El Kafi, who designed the event poster and flyers for the event, said, “Seeing something I created become part of such an important end-of-year moment was a proud and rewarding experience. The December Block event is one of those occasions where students, staff, alumni, and leadership all come together, reinforcing the strong sense of connection at Wittenborg.”

With house, EDM, and mixed genres setting the tone, and a mini game zone keeping energy high, she added, “Moments like these show how creativity can bring people together and make the end of the year feel truly special.” 

WUP 18/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press

Tags
#SDG3: Good Health and Well-being
#Internationalisation
#internationalstudent
#Diversity
#apeldoorn
#studyinholland

Wittenborg Celebrates New Outdoor Sculptures in Apeldoorn's Catharina Amalia Park

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-celebrates-new-outdoor-sculptures-apeldoorns-catharina-amalia-park.htm

Wittenborg CEO Maggie Feng Part of Jury for New Catharina Amalia Park Sculptures

Wittenborg’s Maggie Feng, CEO, was delighted to be part of the jury that selected a new series of contemporary sculptures for the Catharina Amalia Park in Apeldoorn.

The installation, designed by internationally renowned Dutch designer Ineke Hans, was unveiled to the public on 15 December. Commissioned by the Municipality of Apeldoorn in collaboration with the ACEC Foundation, the project brings a modern interpretation of the historic garden vases of Paleis Het Loo into one of Apeldoorn’s most beloved green spaces.

The sculptures transform traditional vase forms into functional benches filled with origami-like flowers and are positioned thoughtfully along park paths and water features. Crafted from warm, natural wood, they harmonise with the park’s greenery while adding a playful contemporary accent.

Feng explained the jury’s process: “The selection began almost three years ago with a wide net of artists considered. This particular artwork scored very high. The artist embedded the story of Paleis Het Loo and its culture beautifully into her work. We are proud to help make art accessible to everyone in Apeldoorn while enhancing public spaces.”

The ACEC Foundation, which advises the Municipality on public art, ensured the sculptures align with both the park’s spatial layout and Apeldoorn’s historical and cultural heritage.

The new installation not only serves as functional public furniture but also connects the city’s royal history with contemporary design, inviting visitors to enjoy an artistic experience in daily life.

For more information on the installation and the designer, visit the ACEC website.

WUP 17/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

How Risk Management and Financial Indicators Drive Corporate Sustainability

https://www.wittenborg.eu/how-risk-management-and-financial-indicators-drive-corporate-sustainability.htm

Guest Lecture by Dr Muhammad Naveed Explores Financial Risk, Sustainability and Investor Confidence

Wittenborg recently welcomed Dr Muhammad Naveed, a leading expert in finance, for an insightful guest lecture titled 'How Financial Indicators and Risk Management Practices Shape Corporate Financial Sustainability and Investors’ Confidence'.

The lecture took place on 17 September, at Wittenborg’s Brinklaan campus in Apeldoorn and online, giving students from the International Business Administration (IBA) programme the opportunity to engage directly with an internationally recognised finance scholar and policymaker.

Naveed is a Professor of Finance at Bahria University and serves as Advisor on Financial Economy to the Government of Pakistan, providing guidance on financial reforms, economic stability, investment facilitation and corporate sustainability.

“I am a Senior Professor with a background in Corporate Finance, Corporate Governance, Capital Markets and Financial Economy,” he said. “My work focuses on research, teaching and contributing to academic excellence, policy development and corporate-academia advocacy.”

Previously, Naveed served as Dean of Management Sciences and Principal of the Business School at Bahria University. His academic and policy contributions reflect a commitment to strengthening financial systems and promoting sustainable economic growth.

During his lecture, Naveed addressed four interconnected themes: financial risk management, corporate financial sustainability, investors’ confidence and financial analysis.

“These topics are highly relevant as they form the foundation of resilient financial systems,” he explained. “Risk management safeguards against uncertainties, corporate sustainability ensures long-term stability, investors’ confidence attracts and retains capital, and financial analysis underpins informed decisions. Collectively, they reinforce capital market strength and economic growth.”

“The main message I wanted to give students,” Naveed said, “is that understanding risk management, sustainability, investor confidence and financial analysis is essential. Mastering these areas equips you to build resilient financial systems, make informed decisions and contribute to strong capital markets and economic growth.”

The session was highly interactive, with students engaging in thoughtful discussions and case analysis. “The interaction with the audience was engaging and interactive,” he reflected. “I encouraged questions, welcomed diverse perspectives and facilitated discussions to ensure concepts were clearly understood and practically connected to real-world examples, such as the case study of Tesla.”

Several students posed insightful questions, sparking conversations about the relationship between corporate risk-taking and investor perception, as well as how sustainability practices influence long-term financial performance.

Naveed concluded by offering practical advice for students aspiring to work in finance-related fields. “Learn about the new age of finance with increased focus on fintech, financial analytics and sustainable finance,” he advised. “Unleash the acumen of the CFO towards innovation.”

WUP 16/12/2025 
by Erene Roux
©WUAS Press

Tags
#SDG11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#apeldoorn
#highered