Global Perspectives, Local Impact: Dr Cha-Hsuan Liu Shares Insights with Asian Institutions

https://www.wittenborg.eu/global-perspectives-local-impact-dr-cha-hsuan-liu-shares-insights-asian-institutions.htm

Wittenborg Associate Professor Delivers Workshops for Policymakers and Education Officers in Taiwan and Macau

This summer, Wittenborg associate professor Dr Cha-Hsuan Liu carried out a series of academic activities across Asia, sharing her expertise on youth development, healthcare and international collaboration. Her itinerary included delivering keynotes and workshops in Taiwan’s Taitung County and at Kaohsiung Medical University. She was also a keynote speaker in the 2025 Asia Pacific Physical and Mental Health Conference in Macau. 

Reflecting on her activities, Liu explained that she has adopted a thematic approach to her lectures in recent years. “Since 2023, I have tried to weave my talks into an overarching theme. This year, I chose ‘Outside In’, because I wanted to introduce outside perspectives to local audiences,” she said.

Discussing youth and well-being

On 8 and 9 July, Liu was invited by the Taitung County administration, a rural region in Taiwan, to speak with both policymakers and young people. The workshops addressed the challenges faced by children and families in areas with limited resources and high levels of screen time among youth. 

“One day was dedicated to policymakers, social workers and teachers, and the next day to children aged 10 to 18,” she explained. “With the students, we discussed their past experiences and their aspirations for the future. They appreciated this opportunity very much, as for many it is not easy to travel to the major cities to access cultural or educational activities.” 

She added that the workshops encouraged students to reflect on how their upbringing influenced their identity. “One student shared that, after her parents’ divorce, she often felt insecure and different from others. But through the discussion, she realised that this situation had made her more independent and mature. What once seemed a disadvantage became an asset,” the associate professor recalled. 

In her talk with officials, she compared policies on the use of digital devices in education. “In the Netherlands, for instance, students must leave their smartphones outside the classroom, as the government believes they can harm learning by causing distraction. In Taiwan, similar school policies are addressed with different considerations, such as the encouragement to self-regulation. By comparing these approaches, policymakers and educators can reflect on what might be improved.” 

Liu also travelled to Macau to take part in the Asia Pacific Physical and Mental Health Conference from 24 to 27 July, which gathered professionals from across the region. Her presentation centred on welfare and well-being policies for youth. “It was very insightful to exchange views in such a diverse setting,” she said. “During the forum where I delivered my keynote, we saw how different countries approach these issues, and that broadens our understanding.”

Academic collaboration in Kaohsiung

On 14 July, Liu returned to her alma mater, Kaohsiung Medical University, to deliver a lecture on international academic cooperation. Her talk focused on initiatives such as the Healing through Humanity network and the Erasmus+ Green4Adu project at Wittenborg, which promotes skills development linked to digital competencies, well-being and sustainability. She also shared her experiences from the Africa-Asia International Conference-Festival (Confest) where she organised a programme on Global Health Matters in June in Dakar, Senegal.  

“The faculty members were very eager to learn more about cooperation with Europe,” she noted. “Traditionally, their connections are mostly with the United States and East Asia. But now they want to understand better how they can work together with European institutions.” 

While in Taiwan, the associate professor also delivered a lecture to master’s students in the Department of Welfare at Chinese Culture University, addressing how parents may consciously assist their children in using digital technologies.  

The importance of internationalisation

For Liu, these activities resonate strongly with Wittenborg’s upcoming Globalisation Forum, which will be held in November. The event brings together academics, industry professionals and students to exchange perspectives on global opportunities and challenges. 

“What I experienced this summer is exactly what the Globalisation Forum aims to achieve,” she said. “Only from different perspectives can we create good ideas for the future. If there is only one viewpoint, our imagination and solutions remain limited.” 

Her recent engagements also demonstrated how international cooperation enriches both local communities and global debates. “By bringing ideas from Europe to Asia and from Asia to Europe, I offer new angles on education and health. But at the same time, I learned from their approaches and their cultural context. This kind of exchange is essential for building better policies and practices,” she concluded. 

WUP 08/10/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#research
#societalimpact

Wittenborg Builds New Connections in Zimbabwe

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-builds-new-connections-zimbabwe.htm

Sean Machaya Undertakes Successful Recruitment Trip to Zimbabwe

Wittenborg recently strengthened its ties in southern Africa as Financial Administrator Sean Machaya, who is originally from Zimbabwe, travelled to the country for a week-long trip between 12 and 17 September. The visit focused on introducing Wittenborg to new schools and education agents, creating opportunities for future student recruitment.

"We wanted them to understand what we offer, what the Netherlands offers and a few points as to why we would be a better choice for a place of study," Machaya explained.  

Although travelling alone, Machaya worked closely with Wittenborg’s Admissions and Sales team, with strong on-the-ground support from Sable International. “Sable International planned all the meetings and ensured we knew where we were going. They even provided one of their agents for each visit. Huge thanks to them, as without their support this would not have been possible,” he said.

For Machaya, the journey carried a personal significance. “For me it was being able to visit my home country after over two years,” he shared. “The people were very lovely and welcoming, and the country itself is just beautiful, undergoing major changes.”

The response from schools and agents exceeded expectations. “I was really satisfied and happy about the trip. I was super surprised by how many people wanted to connect with us,” Machaya said. “I even got emails and phone calls while I was still there from people wanting to schedule meetings. More meetings were arranged because of this – it was amazing how engaged people were.”

He also spoke with school counsellors who shared valuable insights. “They all mentioned that their students resonate and respond more to universities that visit and interact with them on site,” he noted. “They also suggested we try to come around January to March, since the end of the year is exam time in Zimbabwe.”

Machaya’s successful trip follows recent recruitment visits to South Africa and London, with more international events lined up in the coming months as Wittenborg continues to expand its global network and reach new students.

WUP 06/10/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press

Tags
#SDG4: Quality Education
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland

Dive Deep in October: Discover Apeldoorn’s Best Events this Month 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/dive-deep-october-discover-apeldoorns-best-events-month.htm

City Offers Plenty of Cultural and Community Activities

Autumn has arrived, the skies are greying and temperatures are dropping, but there is no reason for gloom. Find out what is happening this month in Apeldoorn and warm up with fun:  

Volunteers wanted  

If you want to make a difference, join a cause and get more involved in the local community, be sure to attend the Volunteer Market Apeldoorn on Saturday, 4 October, from 13:00 to 16:00 at the Orpheus Theatre (Churchillplein 1). Explore over 70 organisations active in a variety of sectors and discover a wide range of volunteer opportunities, from one‑time activities to regular commitments.  

Beer vs Wine  

Did you know Apeldoorn has its own Oktoberfest? 

Join the party this Saturday, 4 October, at Zwitsal Apeldoorn (Vlijtseweg 100) for an evening of dancing, great beer, tasty food and plenty of fun. The event runs from 17:00 to 23:00, and tickets are available on the website. 

Prefer wine over beer? Then don’t miss the Apeldoorn Tasting Festival this Sunday, 5 October, at Ketelhuis Apeldoorn (Veldhuisstraat 7), from 14:00 to 22:00. Expect dozens of wines, delicious bites to match and activities that will immerse you in the world of wine. For more information and tickets, visit the event’s website.  

Autumn Market  

A great option if you like organic products is the Autumn Market at the StadsAkkers farm (Dommeweg 5b). Scheduled for 25 October, from 10:00 to 16:00, the theme of this market is Halloween Lights. You can find pumpkins, mushrooms, seasonal fruits, snacks, crafts and plenty of other delicious and fresh products.   

The world expressed through various lenses  

With the theme “Seeing is a Lie”, which explores the fine line between reality and illusion, the 7th Apeldoorn Photo Festival is taking place until 26 October. The event offers several exhibitions and meetups, most of which are free, at various locations across the city. The festival’s full programme is available here.    

Colour, creativity and style  

Fashion, history and glamour blend at the exhibition ‘Dress Codes – From Statement to Style Icon’, opening at Het Loo Palace on 9 October. Visitors can see the outfits of Queens Wilhelmina, Emma and Máxima, as well as red carpet outfits worn by style icons such as Princess Diana, Kendall Jenner, Salma Hayek, Margot Robbie, Lady Gaga and Audrey Hepburn. Find tickets and more details on the Palace’s website.  

Until 12 October, the Apeldoorn Centre for Contemporary Culture (ACEC) is hosting a new edition of The Big Draw drawing festival at its café. The exhibition showcases the diversity of drawing, curated by artist Niels Janssen. ACEC is located at Roggestraat 44 and is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 to 17:00. Admission is free. 

If you haven’t seen CODA’s Paper Art yet, you still have the chance to see it until 2 November. This impressive exhibition showcases the work of 33 artists from the Netherlands and abroad, and highlights current developments in the field of paper art. Sustainability, identity, migration and the seemingly endless possibilities of artisanal and modern techniques such as origami and AI are recurring themes. One of the highlights is the installation ‘404: Paper Not Found?’ by Gabriela Aguirrezabal, which explores the relationship between paper, printing and the digital age. Tickets and further information are available here.  

Wittenborg’s Halloween Party  

Prepare for a few scares and lots of laughs and fun. On 31 October, from 18:00 to 20:00, Wittenborg is hosting its Halloween Party at Teun Apeldoorn (Kapelstraat 5). Staff and students are invited to join an evening of treats and a costume contest with amazing prizes. Be sure to secure your spot before Wednesday, 22 October. Register here.

WUP 03/10/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

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

Discovering New Markets: Thesis Analyses Potential for Car-Sharing Services in Nigeria

https://www.wittenborg.eu/discovering-new-markets-thesis-analyses-potential-car-sharing-services-nigeria.htm

Gilda Ofiyai’s Research Highlights Opportunities and Challenges in Lagos

Although car-sharing services are practical and innovative commuting solutions that have grown increasingly popular in Europe, their adoption remains limited in Nigeria. To explore both the opportunities and the challenges related to implementing such services, Wittenborg graduate Gilda Ofiyai dedicated her master’s thesis to this topic. 

Gilda, who recently completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in International Management, focused her research on Lagos, the most populous city in Africa.  “I first experienced the car-sharing service Share Now in Berlin, and it really struck my mind that it could be interesting for Nigeria because it’s affordable, flexible and, most importantly, eco-friendly. Lagos often faces traffic congestion and lots of air pollution, so I thought it could benefit the city. At the moment, there are no services of this type in Nigeria, in which the client drives the car, although apps such as Uber and Bolt are present in Nigerian cities,” she explains.  

To gather data for her thesis, Gilda adopted a mixed-methods approach, including interviews and a survey. While the interviews were conducted with 10 managers and entrepreneurs in the car-sharing segment, the survey was administered to 109 customers who use these services. Both the interview and the survey focused on the potential barriers faced by car-sharing platforms in Nigeria as well as the readiness of the public and entrepreneurs to adopt such solutions.  

While the survey included questions on motivations related to environmental consciousness, trust, ease of use and cost, the interview addressed Nigeria’s current infrastructure, legal environment and policies that could facilitate the implementation of car-sharing services, among other topics.  

Gilda points out that approximately 95% of respondents believe using car-sharing services would bring benefits, including more security for the consumer. “Due to the rising security concerns in the country, many people are holding back from using current apps because they don’t feel like being driven by someone else. But with this service in which you drive the car yourself, you feel that safety is in your hands.” 

She adds that apps such as Share Now also provide more flexible and affordable options than the current services. “This is a system that allows the customers to pick up and drop-off the car in accessible, convenient locations, which is a big advantage for them. And it’s also flexible when it comes to payment methods,” the graduate highlights.  

However, there are significant obstacles to the adoption of solutions of this type including the lack of proper infrastructure in Nigeria. “The potential for a service like Share Now is definitely there, but the government needs to implement effective policies and infrastructure such as better roads and GPS tracking systems,” Gilda points out.  

According to her, the most exciting phase of her research was the data collection. “It was very interesting to be able to hear people’s opinions and learn more about the challenges they face.” 

The graduate advises current students who will soon be working on their theses and graduation assignments to start early and stay organised. “I would like to thank my supervisor, Dr Alexander Bauer, because he was super helpful, and also Wittenborg. Thank you for having me as a student,” she adds. 

Regarding her plans for the future, Gilda says that she is considering starting a business similar to Share Now in Nigeria. “But right now, my most immediate goal is to stay in the Netherlands and find a job in sales, marketing or even a different area. I’m open to trying new things.”

WUP 01/10/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#SDG11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#highered
#research
#studyinholland
#internationalstudent

Combining Strategy and Adaptability: Zahra Abedini's Journey in the Netherlands 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/combining-strategy-and-adaptability-zahra-abedinis-journey-netherlands.htm

A Path of Learning, Resilience and Global Career Development

Wittenborg graduate Zahra Abedini is not afraid to take big steps to achieve her goals, having lived and studied in Iran, India and the Netherlands. 

Originally from Tehran, Zahra earned a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. After graduation, she transitioned into the business world, taking on a role as a data analyst at a trade company. Her work involved managing relationships with international suppliers, a task that broadened her horizons and inspired her to move abroad. 

“We had very important suppliers from India, so I decided to pursue my first master’s degree, in Marketing & Human Resources, at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), one of the country’s best universities. This way, I could study while being in contact with our suppliers and managing relationships with them,” she says.  

After returning to her job in Iran, Zahra set her sights on further expanding her qualifications, with an initial plan to move to Canada. Although a Canadian university accepted her, her immigration applications were denied multiple times during the COVID-19 pandemic. “This made me change my focus to Europe, and I figured that the Netherlands was the ideal destination due to its English-speaking environment, which provides international professionals access to the job market.” 

Her choice of Wittenborg’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Smart Industry was equally strategic. Zahra explains that she was drawn to the school’s identity as a university of applied sciences, a model that aligned with her professional experience and her desire for a practical, rather than purely theoretical, education. “I liked how the programme blended business subjects with data analytics and artificial intelligence, including a practical, data-science-related thesis. It was a perfect fit for my goals, as I wanted to study something different from what I already knew.” 

While studying for her degree, Zahra had to overcome financial challenges and manage the demands of balancing work with her studies. This was particularly difficult during her seven-month internship at ASML, a major semiconductor company. “I was living in Amsterdam and working in Eindhoven, so I had to go on a five-hour round trip every day. It was a time of intense pressure, and the internship was very demanding.” 

Despite the challenges, the ASML internship proved to be an enriching professional experience. It was there that she truly understood the nuances of Dutch organisational culture. “The organisational culture is flatter in the Netherlands, while in Iran it is more hierarchical. On top of that, the projects here are highly professional and operate at a deeper level, so I needed to adopt a different way of thinking. I was a different person after my internship at ASML. It gave me a lot – not only technical skills but also helped me develop my professional attitude.” 

Zahra highlights that Wittenborg lecturers were very supportive and helped her advance in her career. “Lasantha De Silva introduced me to my first job, and after I graduated, Professor Gabor Molnar, who was my thesis supervisor, helped me secure a position at Divitel, where I worked as an AI engineer for a year. But this also happened because I spoke up and communicated with my professors. Students need to be proactive and not just wait for opportunities to come to them.” 

Today, Zahra works as a business data analyst and also manages supply chains at Nike, a role she describes as a dream come true. A lifelong sports fan, the opportunity to work for the company held deep personal significance for her. “Joining Nike was a very meaningful moment for me because I had always wanted to be in a sport-related environment. On top of that, the organisational culture is very friendly and supportive. It’s a challenging job, as the company has 800 factories worldwide and we have many tasks, but it is rewarding and I’ve been learning a lot.” 

Regarding her career goals, Zahra plans to stay at Nike and progress into a managerial position, leveraging her dual expertise in data and operations. She also dedicates time to learning project management to further her professional development.  

When asked for advice for current students, she emphasises the importance of a well-defined plan from the very beginning. She encourages students to proactively research job descriptions on platforms like LinkedIn to identify in-demand skills, to invest in networking and to seek out internships to gain invaluable professional experience and cultural understanding. 

Zahra points out that the most valuable lessons she has learned are the importance of planning and the need for flexibility. “Immigration is all about coming out of your comfort zone. You need to be adaptable and prepared for everything, because even your most structured plans can go a different way than you imagine. But having a clear plan from the start is essential,” she concludes.

WUP 29/09/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#highered
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland

Wittenborg and Texas MBA Students Collaborate in Workshop for Zuidoost Werkt 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-and-texas-mba-students-collaborate-workshop-zuidoost-werkt.htm

Students Develop Strategies for Employment and Language Support for Zuidoost Werkt

On 25 August, Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences’ Amsterdam study location welcomed Zuidoost Werkt, an employment social enterprise that helps residents of Amsterdam Zuidoost find training and employment. The initiative is part of the Masterplan Zuidoost (2021–2040), a long-term strategy aimed at empowering residents, strengthening community ties, and creating sustainable career pathways, especially for those facing barriers to employment.  

During the visit, Project Manager Wouter Plaisier presented the masterplan to a joint group of Wittenborg and University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) MBA (Master of Business Administration) students. The plan emphasises a shift from top-down planning to inclusive, community-led solutions that enable local residents to thrive.  

Following the presentation, students took part in a brainstorming workshop to develop strategies to help highly educated migrants access employment and language training. Wouter and Mirjam Ros from the Municipality of Amsterdam circulated among the groups, providing guidance and feedback. The session benefited greatly from the expertise of students with HR backgrounds, which added to the quality of the recommendations.

Groups presented ideas focused on three key themes:

Mentorship and Community-led Support
Language and Confidence Building
Partnerships and Fair Access to Work
Wittenborg students also shared their experiences as non-Dutch speakers navigating the local labour market, offering valuable insights for the United States visitors about the challenges migrants face in language learning and workplace integration.  

Senior Lecturer Amy Abdou, who organised the event, described it as a “win-win for everyone involved.”  

“The executive MBA students from Texas were excited to meet their local counterparts and exchange ideas. The organisation received meaningful feedback, compiled into a report and translated it into Dutch. Wittenborg students gained networking opportunities and insight into initiatives supporting people like them.”  

Fernando Jimenez-Arevalo, Associate Professor at UTEP, noted the parallels between Amsterdam Zuidoost and El Paso, highlighting shared challenges UTEP has faced to empower students who may lack English language skills.  

WUP 26/09/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press

Tags
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#Ethics
#internationalstudent

Expanding Horizons: Wittenborg Connects with International Professionals at ICEF London 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/expanding-horizons-wittenborg-connects-international-professionals-icef-london.htm

School Represented by Michael Sheppard and Marlon Birdsall at Major Higher Education Event

Wittenborg had the opportunity to strengthen its ties with professionals from the global higher education sector during ICEF Higher Education London, held at the Intercontinental O2 hotel from 12 to 14 September.  

The school was represented by Recruitment & Sales Representative Michael Sheppard and Customer Relations Administrator Marlon Birdsall. The event gathered 500 professionals, including 150 representatives of higher education institutions, 100 service providers and 250 student recruitment agents.  

The programme also featured ICEF Monitor Global Summit, now on its second edition, which brings together influential professionals from across the sector to share knowledge, discuss trends and support the sustainable growth of the industry.  

Sheppard highlighted that Wittenborg kept up with the tradition of being incredibly popular at ICEF events, filling two full schedules and having additional meetings on top. “ICEF London offers a unique opportunity, as it is a global event, with agencies from every region participating. I met with many agents whom I've had the pleasure of meeting before, from diverse areas in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. A key insight I hear every time is the rising popularity of Europe and especially the Netherlands, with its near-native level English and very affordable, high-quality education.”  

For Birdsall, participating in ICEF London was a rewarding experience. “It was great to meet people from all over the world and share ideas. For Wittenborg, having students from many different countries and backgrounds is really important, because that’s what helps the school grow while staying diverse. ICEF London is a respected event, and we came back with valuable insights.”

WUP 25/09/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#highered
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland

Wittenborg Visits South Africa to Connect with Prospective Students 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-visits-south-africa-connect-prospective-students.htm

Eunice Cheung Highlights Opportunities for South African Students at Wittenborg

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences recently made its mark in South Africa, as Eunice Cheung, Regional Admissions Manager, travelled to Johannesburg, Durban and Stellenbosch to meet prospective students at the Sable International Study Abroad Expo.  

“The purpose of the event was to meet students from South Africa who are interested in studying abroad and to introduce them to the academic opportunities at Wittenborg as well as the cultural experience of living in the Netherlands,” Eunice explained. “It was really encouraging to see how genuinely interested the students were.”  

The expo, organised by Sable International, took place from 8 to 10 September and welcomed students and parents from colleges across the country. Eunice described South Africa as “a beautiful country with warm, welcoming people and wonderful weather,” which made the visit even more enjoyable.  

Wittenborg Visits South Africa to Connect with Prospective Students 
“What stood out for me most was the cultural and linguistic connection,” she said. “The similarity between Dutch and Afrikaans as well as shared cultural aspects makes it easy for students to adapt.”  

During the events, Eunice also had some memorable conversations. “I spoke with a parent who had studied in the Netherlands himself and now wants to send his children there. It really highlighted the strong reputation Dutch education holds across generations,” she said.  

Beyond meeting students and parents, Eunice took the opportunity to connect with representatives from universities all over the world. “It was a great chance for multicultural interaction and to gain insights into the education landscape in different countries,” she added.

Apart from the recent events in South Africa, Wittenborg has a number of exciting opportunities for prospective students to meet the team and learn more about studying in the Netherlands. Upcoming events include the Onderwijsbeurs Zuid in Veldhoven on 26 and 27 September, the BSN University Fair at The British School in Voorschoten on 1 October, and ICEF Berlin 2025 from 2 to 4 November. Wittenborg has also recently visited London, Zimbabwe and many other countries as part of its ongoing international recruitment efforts. 

WUP 24/09/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#SDG4: Quality Education
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#studyinholland
#internationalstudent

Wittenborg IAAP Member Honoured with African Excellence Award

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-iaap-member-honoured-african-excellence-award.htm

Professor Ben Honyenuga Recognised for Outstanding Contribution to Technical and Vocational Education

Professor Ben Honyenuga, a member of Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences’ International Academic Advisory Panel (IAAP), has received the African Excellence Award at the closing ceremony of the 7th Pan African Youth Forum and the 2025 Annual Conference of the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa (ATUPA). The event was held in Durban, South Africa, and recognised individuals who have made outstanding contributions to technical and vocational education across the continent.

Honyenuga, who is Vice-Chancellor of Ho Technical University (HTU) in Ghana, described the honour as a strong motivation to continue his work in education and leadership.

“The award provides further motivation for me to do more for my university, Ho Technical University, and all the other universities that I am associated with, as well as for my country, Ghana, and Africa as a whole,” he said. “Because the Association of Technical Universities and Polytechnics in Africa has several members—roughly over 400—it also encourages me to do more on transnational education, the education across borders, including the work that I do at Wittenborg. I am sure it will also encourage me to look beyond my own environment and contribute my quota to developing other environments, especially when it comes to education.”

Reflecting on his professional journey, Honyenuga highlighted more than two decades of service in technical and vocational education. He has held senior leadership roles, including his current position as Vice-Chancellor, and has contributed to continental initiatives such as serving on the board of ATUPA and helping to shape the 2024 to 2028 Strategic Plan for the Association for the Development of Education in Africa.

As a member of Wittenborg’s IAAP, Honyenuga, who holds a PhD in Management from the Open University of the Netherlands and brings extensive experience in higher education leadership and policy development, said the award strengthens his commitment to supporting the business school’s international ambitions. He explained that being part of a panel of professors from around the world allows them to share ideas, discuss global challenges, and recommend solutions. 

“This recognition makes me more humble and determined to work with my colleagues to advance Wittenborg’s ambition of becoming the number one international university of applied sciences everywhere, while bringing my experience from Africa to add to the mix,” he said.

Honyenuga added that the award naturally strengthens Wittenborg’s global mission.

“Having been recognised among my peers in Africa and working alongside colleagues from around the world, you cannot separate the award from the work I do here. My contribution extends beyond my immediate environment to the wider international community.” 

WUP 23/09/2025 
by Erene Roux
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG4: Quality Education
#research
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#Ethics
#societalimpact

Wittenborg Strengthens International Presence at EAIE 2025 in Gothenburg

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-strengthens-international-presence-eaie-2025-gothenburg.htm

Strong Visibility for Wittenborg at EAIE 2025 in Gothenburg

With more than 7,000 participants from 106 countries, the 35th edition of the EAIE (European Association for International Education) Conference transformed Gothenburg, Sweden, into a hub for international higher education. This year’s theme, “GO-create,” encouraged collaboration and co-creation, and the energy across the conference reflected it: ideas flowed freely, networking was constant and partnerships began to take shape.

Representing Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences were President Peter Birdsall and Head of Business Development and Operations Stephen Orme. Orme, who was appointed to his role earlier in 2025 and has been involved with EAIE committees since 2008, attended the event both as a representative of Wittenborg and as one of the five EAIE board members.

Birdsall and Orme represented Wittenborg at Nuffic’s NL Pavilion, where they discussed study-abroad programmes, forged international partnerships and explored new opportunities for collaboration.

“It was really valuable to collaborate with other Dutch institutions and have a shared space where we could meet, connect and represent Dutch higher education as a whole,” Orme explained.

His dual role meant a packed schedule, balancing high-level EAIE responsibilities with strategic meetings on behalf of Wittenborg.

“For me, it was two things: attending as a Wittenborg representative and as an EAIE board member. That made the week very full but also gave Wittenborg excellent exposure,” he said. “Indeed, the combination has just been really rewarding. I’m thankful to Wittenborg for supporting me in both capacities.”

For Orme, the venue itself also contributed to the conference’s energy. Unlike the previous year’s conference, Gothenburg’s layout made it easy to navigate and connect with others.

“I noticed a higher level of energy at this year’s conference. The venue was compact and easy to navigate, which made it easier for people to connect and get involved. Overall, it was a very successful week,” he said.

In addition to the social programme, including the Opening Reception at Liseberg theme park, Orme and Birdsall attended various sessions and keynotes. Orme also participated in multiple evening events including the Baltic, Romanian and Dutch receptions as well as the President’s Reception with Birdsall. He highlighted three major discussion themes: geopolitics, the enduring value of international education and artificial intelligence (AI).

In particular, the closing keynote by Swedish journalist, author and Gothenburg native Andreas Ekström explored how the ongoing AI revolution is reshaping learning, innovation and decision-making. Building on this theme, Orme later joined a panel discussion organised by The PIE to discuss AI as well as the role of agents, aggregators and the future of student recruitment, drawing on insights gathered during the conference.

Reflecting on the week, Birdsall said the event was both inspiring and a reminder of Wittenborg’s unique international character. He noted that EAIE consistently highlights the school’s global identity, with more than 1,500 students from over 100 countries and an internationally focused curriculum, teaching style and literature.

Among the many standout sessions, one of the most significant explored how international higher education in Europe should navigate shifting political landscapes and the growing threats to student mobility. “Although I have known EAIE board members and presidents in the past, having our very own Stephen Orme serve as one of the five members of the board truly puts Wittenborg on the map,” Birdsall said. “He represents us in so many ways and brings Wittenborg into key discussions with stakeholders.”

He added that the conference also generated promising new connections, including talks with European universities interested in expanding Erasmus and EU projects, as well as institutions from India, China and Africa.

“The conference is always a warm gathering of like-minded people celebrating internationalisation and the values we hold so dearly,” Birdsall concluded. “Thanks to the EAIE board, the staff who make it all possible and the leadership of Mervin Bakker for a truly memorable experience. I’m already looking forward to the next EAIE conference in Glasgow.”

WUP 22/09/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#Ethics
#studyinholland
#societalimpact
#EAIE