Wittenborg Students Share Their Erasmus+ Experience in Romania

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-students-share-their-erasmus-experience-romania.htm

Wittenborg Students Apply Business Skills Abroad Through Erasmus+ Programme

Eight Wittenborg students recently returned from an inspiring Erasmus+ mobility programme hosted by Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The initiative forms part of the wider Erasmus+ framework, which offers students and staff the opportunity to study or complete traineeships abroad at partner institutions and strengthen international cooperation across Europe.

The one-week project in November 2025 combined academic work with cultural exploration and brought together students from across the continent for an intensive international learning experience. Participants joined one of two programmes: the Business Carrousel or the Gamification and Behavioral Hacks for Smarter Film Festival Ticketing project. Both tracks blended theory with hands-on work and challenged students to collaborate across cultures.

Learning Through Real Cases and International Teamwork

Students worked alongside peers from France, Poland, Norway and Romania. MCI Marketing and Communication student Sahana Mital said the highlight of her week was the collaboration itself.

“Working alongside students from France and Poland gave me the opportunity to learn different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. It was fascinating to see how diverse ideas came together in our group to create innovative solutions for attracting more audiences to the festival,” she shared.

She added that presenting ideas to festival representatives was a valuable moment, saying, “Their feedback helped me understand how industry professionals think and what they look for in practical solutions.”

For students in the Business Carrousel track, the programme offered a similar depth of practical learning. HBA student Nguyen Do Quyen appreciated how the project brought theory to life.

“What stood out to me the most was the project itself. It was extremely practical since students could apply what they learn in class directly to the project. We had lectures and discussions that were helpful and we had to apply what we learned to resolve a real business case,” she said.

Quyen also reflected on the value of representing Wittenborg abroad. “I felt very proud to be one of the representatives for Wittenborg. Programmes like this give students the opportunity to gain more experience and promote our school to other countries in Europe.”

A Vibrant Setting for Cultural Exchange

Cluj-Napoca, known as one of Romania’s most dynamic student cities, made a strong impression on the group. HBA Sport Business Management student Arshia Baharloueiyancheshmeh described the city as a key part of his positive experience.

“Cluj-Napoca has a unique energy as a student city. Exploring its historic streets, cafés and landmarks made the whole experience even more memorable,” he said. “The mix of academic activities and cultural experiences made the stay both inspiring and enjoyable.”

Arshia also highlighted the international atmosphere. “We quickly built a great connection. Spending time with people from different backgrounds helped me broaden my perspective and appreciate how diverse and inspiring international collaboration can be.”

A Successful Week of Cooperation

Across both programmes, students consistently mentioned the strong teamwork, open exchange of ideas and professional insights gained through the Erasmus+ activity. Many described the week as both academically enriching and personally meaningful.

Sahana summarised the experience simply: “The collaborative energy stood out. Everyone contributed unique perspectives and it gave me a strong sense of accomplishment.”

Looking Ahead

Wittenborg is continuing to explore new Erasmus+ mobility opportunities that will offer students further chances to build international experience, expand their networks and apply business knowledge in a global context.

WUP 08/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Wittenborg’s December Block Welcomes Students from More than 20 Countries

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborgs-december-block-welcomes-students-more-20-countries.htm

International Students Arrive in Apeldoorn, Amsterdam and Munich for Final Intake of 2025

Wittenborg has welcomed more than 50 new students for its December 2025 block, reinforcing its position as one of the most international business schools in the Netherlands. The students are pursuing programmes in business administration, entrepreneurship, management, logistics, health and social care, artificial intelligence, and other specialisations at Wittenborg’s study locations in Apeldoorn, Amsterdam and Munich.

Wittenborg’s international community is supported by its distinctive six-intake-per-year system, which offers flexibility for students to start their studies throughout the year. The next entry date is February 2026, followed by further opportunities in April, May, August, October and November.

A Warm Welcome in Apeldoorn  

Wittenborg’s Introduction Week took place from 24 to 27 November, giving new students insight into academic expectations, cultural adaptation and the support services available at the business school. During the welcome gathering in Apeldoorn, Rector Ron Tuninga addressed the new cohort with a message focused on international understanding and community.  

“You’re very welcome here at Wittenborg, coming from many different places around the world,” he said. “It is a real opportunity for you to travel the world without having to go everywhere because the world is here.”  

Drawing on his experience as an international student himself, he encouraged students to build friendships across cultures.  

“Some of those people will become your friends for life. If we understand each other better, then together we can make a better world.”  

He also advised students who may wish to remain in the Netherlands after graduation to consider learning Dutch. 

“If you want to stay here and work for a bit, I cannot recommend enough learning the language. It gives you access to the culture and increases your opportunities.”

Tuninga closed with a light-hearted remark about Dutch weather: “We always say we have four seasons in one day. But luckily you didn’t come for the weather.”  

A New Chapter for International Student

Among the new arrivals was Natalie Pestukova from the Czech Republic, who has started her studies in Entrepreneurship and Small Business at Wittenborg’s Amsterdam study location.  

Originally from the Moravian region, she said she was drawn to Wittenborg because of its practical approach.  

“I’ve always liked the idea of studying business and when I found out about Wittenborg I got super excited about how hands-on it is and how graduates have better work opportunities,” she said.  

Natalie already knew the Netherlands well, having previously lived in The Hague as an au pair. “I absolutely fell in love with the culture and how open-minded everybody is. I felt something calling me back here,” she explained.  

Before returning to the Netherlands she spent two years in California, where she attended UCLA courses alongside her au pair programme.  

Now settling into this new chapter Amsterdam, she said what excites her most is the school’s international environment.

“The diversity is amazing. I get to learn about other cultures, make new friends and learn from professionals from different countries with different experiences.” 

WUP 05/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG4: Quality Education
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#Ethics
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland

Wittenborg Lecturer Joins Erasmus+ KA131 Sustainability Training in Dublin 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-lecturer-joins-erasmus-ka131-sustainability-training-dublin.htm

Emmah Muchoki Joins Erasmus+ Training on Sustainability

Emmah Muchoki, Senior Lecturer and Education Support at Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences, recently took part in a staff mobility training under the Erasmus+ KA131 programme. The course, Sustainability for Higher Education Professionals, was hosted by Dorset College Dublin in Ireland from 15 to 19 September.  

Learning About Sustainability and Leadership  

The training brought together ten participants from higher education institutions across France, Italy, Germany, Norway and Poland. Muchoki said the course provided valuable insights into how sustainability can be embedded in leadership and decision-making.  

“I learnt a lot on how sustainability and the role of sustainability in leadership. The review and discussion of real-world examples of sustainable practices and circular economy initiatives stood out for me,” she said. “An interesting case study we did in class was Elizabeth Holmes & The Theranos Deception, which focused on the role of ethics in business.”

Cultural Exchange and Networking  

Beyond the classroom, Muchoki said the experience offered a valuable opportunity to connect with peers and explore Irish culture.  

“Networking with professionals from other institutions and enjoying the Irish culture was wonderful. Visiting places such as the Glendalough Monastic Site, the Guinness Museum, the National Irish Museum and Trinity College were great cultural experiences.”  

Exploring the ‘Three Ps’ of Sustainability  

A key theme of the course was the concept of the “Three Ps” — people, planet and profit, which together form the triple bottom line in sustainability.  

“The Three P’s of sustainability—people, planet and profit — offer a guiding principle for modern organisations,” Muchoki explained. “They help businesses stay true to ethical values while remaining profitable. Ethical and sustainable practices ensure that organisations operate in ways that are environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically equitable.”

The programme was delivered by Senior Lecturer Jerry O’Connell, who reflected on the experience:  

“I enjoyed delivering the course on behalf of Dorset College Dublin to a group of diverse academics from across Europe. Learning from each other in a respectful and collaborative forum is also a very beneficial way I can continue to improve this course for future participants.”  

Supporting Wittenborg’s Global Vision  

Muchoki’s participation in the Erasmus+ KA131 Staff Mobility Programme reflects Wittenborg’s ongoing commitment to internationalisation and professional development. Through such opportunities, staff members gain international experience, expand their networks and bring fresh insights back to the school.

WUP 03/12/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

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

Festive Fun in Amsterdam: Lights, Winter Adventures and Circus Magic

https://www.wittenborg.eu/festive-fun-amsterdam-lights-winter-adventures-and-circus-magic.htm

Amsterdam Brings Festive Magic for Visitors and Locals Alike

December in Amsterdam is one of the most atmospheric times of the year. Historic streets glow with festive lights, winter markets fill the city with seasonal flavours and handmade gifts, and cultural institutions host special events for all ages. From ice skating at Museumplein to the return of the World Christmas Circus, here are the key highlights happening across the city this December.  

Late-Night Winter Evenings at Hortus Botanicus  

• Dates: 27–30 December & 2–3 January  
• Location: Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam  

Hortus Botanicus extends its opening hours for its Winter Evenings programme. Visitors can wander through beautifully illuminated greenhouses, explore tropical plants and ancient palms after dark, and warm up on the winter terrace with hot drinks beside the campfire. The Climate Greenhouse and special exhibitions featuring night-blooming plants make this one of the most atmospheric winter experiences in the city.  

World Christmas Circus – Royal Theater Carré  

• Dates: Until 4 January  
• Location: Royal Theater Carré  

A long-running family tradition, the World Christmas Circus brings international award-winning performers to Amsterdam. Expect a blend of classic circus disciplines and modern theatrical elements: flying trapeze artists, clowns, equestrian performers, aerial acts and daring stunts. Each edition features artists from major circus festivals around the world, making it a highlight of the festive season.  

Amsterdam Light Festival – 14th Edition  

• Dates: Until 18 January 2026
• Location: Amsterdam city centre, canals & surrounding streets  

The city lights up during the Amsterdam Light Festival, now in its fourteenth year. A curated route of light artworks creates a 6.5 km walking trail along canals and historic streets. This year's theme focuses on legacy, coinciding with the final moments of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary year. Visitors can explore the illuminated installations on foot or by boat.  

Het Amsterdamse Winterparadijs (Winter Paradise)  

• Dates: Until 3 January 2026
• Location: RAI Amsterdam  

RAI Amsterdam transforms into a large-scale winter wonderland with indoor and outdoor activities. Highlights include two skating rinks, an après-ski village, winter cinema, funfair attractions with city views, a snow slope for tubing, cross-country skiing, marshmallow roasting areas and curling lanes. It’s one of the biggest winter experiences in the Netherlands, suitable for families, groups and festive outings.  

Ice Rink at Museumplein  

• Dates: Until February 2026
• Location: Museumplein  

A seasonal favourite returns as Museumplein becomes a large open-air skating area with restaurants, themed evenings, silent discos and winter activities. The rink is surrounded by festive lights and food stands offering winter treats.

Tickets: approx. €14  

Christmas Markets in Amsterdam

Christmas Village – Museumplein  

• Dates: Until 28 December, 12:00–21:00

A festive market with wooden cabins, warm drinks, gift stalls and seasonal food. The Christmas Village adds to the winter atmosphere of Museumplein and offers daily entertainment and cosy dining options.  

Funky Christmas Market – Westergas  

• Date: 21 December, 12:00–18:00

A creative market with local designers, artists and artisans selling handmade goods, fashion, homeware and festive gifts.  

Sustainable Christmas Market – De Ceuvel  

• Dates: 14–15 December & 21–22 December, 13:00–20:00

An eco-friendly Christmas market focusing on sustainable products, recycled art, ethical gifts and workshops.  

PURE Winter Market – Park Frankendael  

• Date: 21 December, 11:00–17:00

A family-friendly outdoor market with artisanal food stalls, local crafts, and seasonal snacks.

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

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

A Festive December in Apeldoorn and Surrounding Areas: Christmas Markets, Lights and More

https://www.wittenborg.eu/festive-december-apeldoorn-and-surrounding-areas-christmas-markets-lights-and-more.htm

Experience the Magic of December in Apeldoorn 

Apeldoorn and its neighbouring towns are offering a full programme of festive events in December 2025. From Christmas markets and handmade gift fairs to illuminated palaces, light festivals and New Year celebrations, residents and visitors have plenty of options to get into the holiday spirit. 

Station Royaal Handmade Gift Market  

• Date: 6 December 
• Time: 11:00–17:00 
• Location: Station Royaal, Apeldoorn  

Station Royaal will host a market featuring exclusive, handmade gifts. Artisans include Dot-art Delft, MoMo-Creations, the Yourright Foundation and Bettine, who repurposes cutlery into jewellery. Festive wines will also be available. Visitors can enjoy lunch or coffee while browsing unique gifts. Admission is free. 

Vaassen Christmas Market at Cannenburch Castle 

• Dates: 12–14 December 
• Times: 12 December 13:00–21:30, 13 December 11:00–21:30, 14 December 11:00–17:00 
• Location: Cannenburch Castle 

The thirty-sixth edition of the Vaassen Christmas Market will take over the forecourt of Cannenburch Castle. Stalls will offer seasonal gifts, decorations and treats. Choirs and bands will perform, and street theatre, including Christmas angels on stilts, adds to the festive atmosphere.  

The castle itself can only be visited with a combined ticket. Market entry alone costs €4, with children under twelve admitted free. Advance online booking is recommended.  

Dickens Festival

• Dates: 13–14 December 
• Location: Deventer, Bergkwartier District  

The 33rd Dickens Festival brings 19th-century English life to Deventer with over 950 characters from Charles Dickens’s novels. Visitors will encounter Scrooge, Oliver Twist, Mr Pickwick, Christmas carol singers, orphans, office clerks and posh folk across the historic Bergkwartier district. The festival attracts thousands of visitors from the Netherlands and abroad.  

Admission is €6, payable at the ticket office at the start of the queue. Children aged 7 and under enter free. Expect potential queues due to the festival’s popularity.  

Cut Your Own Christmas Tree

• Dates: 13–14 December 
• Time: 10:00–16:00 
• Location: De Hoge Veluwe National Park  

Visitors can select and cut one Scots pine per person free of charge, helping maintain the park’s unique drifting sand landscape. Participants must book a free time slot and collect a voucher at Marchantplein before proceeding to the felling site. Only the park entrance fee applies.  

XXL Record Fair

• Date: 14 December 
• Time: 10:00–17:00 
• Location: Matenpark Sports Hall, Apeldoorn  

Music enthusiasts can browse over 100,000 CDs and LPs from more than 80 record dealers. The fair offers rare and affordable finds across a wide range of genres, celebrating the resurgence of vinyl.  

The illuminated Hunting Lodge

• Dates: 9–18 December 
• Time: Tuesday–Thursday 16:30–17:30 
• Location: De Hoge Veluwe National Park  

During the dark days around Christmas, the lodge’s interior and exterior are illuminated. Completed in 1920 for the Kröller-Müller family, Jachthuis Sint Hubertus features advanced technological innovations for its time, including central heating, a central clock system, a central vacuum system, an elevator and electric lighting.  

Binky’s Light Festival

• Dates: 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 December 
• Time: 17:30–20:30 
• Location: Binky Play Farm  

Binky’s Light Festival returns with thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, hot drinks and treats around the campfire. Santa and Mrs Claus appear on 22 and 23 December, while Binky and Olaf are present every evening for photos.  

A festive Christmas market will run on 22 and 23 December from 13:00, featuring snacks, gifts and crafts. Tickets are €4.50 per person, €3.50 for season ticket holders.  

Paleis Het Loo – Winter Illuminations  

• Dates: 28 November–4 January 
• Location: Paleis Het Loo  

Paleis Het Loo is decorated with illuminated Christmas trees and seasonal decorations. Visitors can enjoy the stables square with mulled wine or hot chocolate and explore palace rooms decorated in 19th- and 20th-century Christmas style. Tickets should be booked online in advance.  

Winter Circus Apeldoorn  

• Dates: 21–28 December 
• Location: Parking lot of De Voorwaarts, Apeldoorn  

Horwood Productions presents the Winter Circus with twelve international artists performing acrobatics, comedy and theatrical acts. The heated circus tent provides a cosy winter atmosphere suitable for all ages.  

Apeldoorn Counts Down – New Year Celebration  

• Date: 31 December 
• Time: 20:00–01:00 
• Location: Zwitsal Grounds, Apeldoorn  

Apeldoorn’s free New Year celebration includes live performances, DJs and two spectacular firework displays. Acts include DJ Jeronimo, Hansen Tomas, Kris Kross Amsterdam and The Partysquad.  

Child-friendly Countdown at Zuiderpark: 19:00–21:00, free admission, with music and fireworks suitable for younger visitors. 

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

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

Navigating the New Era of Education: Study Sheds Light on Human Dimension of AI Integration

https://www.wittenborg.eu/navigating-new-era-education-study-sheds-light-human-dimension-ai-integration.htm

Aynur Deliveli’s MBA Thesis Highlights Critical Gap in Institutional Support for Business Lecturers

In a world where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming business and education, Wittenborg graduate Aynur Deliveli’s thesis highlights the human element of this technological shift. Aynur, who is originally from Türkiye and completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Education Management, analysed the relationship between institutional support and how business school lecturers perceive their ability to integrate AI into their work. 

The graduate notes that her topic of choice was inspired by her years of experience in higher education. As she explains, the dual impact of AI on business and education makes business schools particularly vulnerable. “We don’t really know how capable lecturers feel in using these tools or whether institutional support makes a difference, so I was driven by a desire to explore their perspectives.” 

For her research, Aynur adopted a qualitative exploratory approach, conducting in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 16 business school lecturers from seven different higher education institutions across the Netherlands. The faculty members taught a variety of business disciplines, including marketing, finance and human resources, and their teaching experience ranged from three to 25 years. This method, as Aynur notes, was a deliberate choice to capture “rich, detailed experiences” about AI integration. 

The interviews explored several key topics, including educators’ familiarity with AI tools and learning experiences, their views on institutional support systems and ethical considerations, such as transparency, fairness and accountability. 

Aynur’s findings reveal a complex picture. She found that while many lecturers were comfortable with individual AI tools for basic tasks, they often struggled with effectively integrating them into their pedagogy and content. The most significant finding was the gap in institutional support. Most participants reported a lack of formal AI training or professional development opportunities. Similarly, technical support was minimal, with many teachers even purchasing their own AI subscriptions. 

“This research reinforced my belief that educational technology isn’t just about the technology; it’s about the people using it and the systems supporting them,” Aynur states.  

She also underlines an unexpected but critical theme that emerged from her interviews: Policy Leadership. “Teachers expressed frustration with unclear or contradictory policies on AI, which created systemic barriers beyond just a lack of training or resources. This led to a sense of hesitation, confusion and isolation.” 

Regarding her plans for the future, Aynur, who is currently a Research & Education Administrator at Wittenborg, plans to continue leveraging the knowledge and skills from her MBA in the fields of higher education and research. She intends to share her research findings through publications to add value to both academic and professional communities.  

The graduate encourages current students to choose something they genuinely care about when working on their theses and graduation assignments. “My passion for understanding how teachers navigate technological change kept me motivated through challenging phases of the research.” 

She also advises students to embrace the iterative process and not underestimate data analysis, noting that the real insights emerge from this phase. 

For Aynur, the interview process was the most enjoyable part of her thesis journey. “Listening to lecturers talk about their experiences – their challenges, successes and creative ideas – was both insightful and motivating,” she says. “It felt meaningful to provide a space for them to share the issues they encounter in their daily work.”

WUP 28/11/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG4: Quality Education
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#Internationalisation
#highered
#research
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland

TourXpeRience Latest: Showcasing XR-Enhanced Tourism Education at TPM and Globalisation Forum

https://www.wittenborg.eu/tourxperience-latest-showcasing-xr-enhanced-tourism-education-tpm-and-globalisation-forum.htm

From Kickoff to TPM: Key Milestones in the TourXpeRience Project

Wittenborg continues to drive innovation in vocational tourism education through the Erasmus+ project Nurturing Entrepreneurial Teaching and Learning for VET Excellence in Tourism Education (TourXpeRience). The project aims to modernise VET in tourism through Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR), equipping learners with future-ready digital and sustainability skills.  

After launching in Palermo, Italy, earlier in 2025—marking Wittenborg’s largest Erasmus+ initiative to date—20 partners from nine countries (Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Portugal, Austria, and Poland), including universities, VET institutions, research centres, SMEs, and chambers of commerce, established the strategic framework for integrating XR into tourism curricula and promoting sustainable, entrepreneurial learning across Europe.  

Building on its strong start, Wittenborg participated in the second Transnational Project Meeting (TPM), held online from 25 to 26 September and organised by CEIPES. Around 30 representatives joined the two-day meeting to review project progress, align deliverables, and coordinate next steps across all work packages.  

Jian Liu, Erasmus+ Project Administrator & Researcher at Wittenborg, emphasised the productive nature of the meeting: “The meeting allowed clear alignment on deliverables and deadlines. What stood out most was the shared commitment to maintaining high standards through structured peer review and progress monitoring.”  

Key insights from the TPM highlighted the importance of integrating quality assurance early in the development process and establishing shared responsibility among partners.  

Research Insights Shared at Wittenborg’s Globalisation Forum  

In November 2025, Wittenborg further showcased the project during its Globalisation Forum, where faculty members Carlos Roos, Emmah Muchoki, and Aydan Holtrigter delivered a research presentation detailing the project. Their session provided students and attendees with a deeper understanding of the project’s goals, research findings, and expected impact on tourism VET.  

The presentation underscored:  

• Why the project matters: The tourism sector lacks standardised training pathways and requires continuous adaptation to digitalisation, sustainability pressures, and evolving customer expectations.
• How the project responds: By updating VET curricula with digital and sustainability skills, providing XR-based learning resources, and supporting educators through professional development.
• Expected impact: More engaging learning experiences, stronger digital competencies, improved environmental awareness, and a mindset geared towards sustainable entrepreneurship.  The research also addressed broader drivers such as the European Green Deal, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and OECD recommendations on digital and green transitions. Structured recommendations were shared for teachers, VET institutions, and policymakers across the four stages of XR integration: Planning, Design, Implementation, and Evaluation.  

Milestones Achieved in Work Package 2 (WP2): Market Trends and Training Guidelines  

Work Package 2 also made significant progress in establishing the project’s research foundation, successfully finalising two key deliverables that underpin the strategic framework for XR integration.  

The first deliverable is a comprehensive analysis of the sector’s needs, resulting in the Market Trends and Skills in the Tourism Sector report. This document synthesises extensive data from surveys and focus groups to identify critical gaps in green and digital competencies among VET students and professionals.

Building on these insights, WP2 also produced the Guidelines for the Development of XR Training Modules report, which establishes a pedagogical framework and evaluation criteria for embedding immersive technologies such as VR and AR into tourism curricula. Together, these outputs provide the evidence base required to design relevant, future-ready training modules in subsequent project phases.

WUP 26/11/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press

Tags
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#Ethics
#research
#Erasmus+
#ResearchCentre

Wittenborg Wraps Up Erasmus+ BusyBees Project at Globalisation Forum

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-wraps-erasmus-busybees-project-globalisation-forum.htm

Initiative Focused on Developing Students’ Digital and Green Competencies

On 3 November, during the second edition of Wittenborg’s Globalisation Forum, Associate Professor of Applied Sciences Vanessa Menezes delivered the concluding presentation for the Research Centre’s project BusyBees, sponsored by Erasmus+. The session was attended by approximately 250 students, as well as visitors from other higher education institutions. 

The consortium included partners from four other countries alongside Wittenborg: JAC Jobs Academy (Italy), iTStudy (Hungary), Institut Escola del Treball (Spain) and Solution Based Training & Consultancy (Türkiye). The initiative was designed to bridge the gap between higher education courses and market demands in topics such as digital and green marketing.   

The project sought to develop a ‘Business Game Methodology for Twin Transition in Higher Education’, where student teams competed to create a solution based on a challenge posed by a company in their specific study sector. Simultaneously, the students received training on skills related to the two areas of the Twin Transition – digital and green competencies – to develop a solution for the company’s problem.  

The BusyBees project ran for two years, starting in November 2023. In the Netherlands, the activities included partners such as Het Loo Palace, where Wittenborg student teams were tasked with increasing visitor engagement while reducing environmental impact. 

Reflecting on the project’s outcome, Menezes highlighted its importance in helping students develop technological and sustainability skills that are increasingly demanded by the market. “Collaborating within a consortium of institutions from various countries was a truly enriching experience. One of the most rewarding aspects was seeing the practical results delivered by students to SMEs in our region. They proposed simple, actionable ideas aligned with the Twin Transition, which companies can implement in the short term,” she said.

WUP 24/11/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#Erasmus+
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#research
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#SDG11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Wittenborg’s Globalisation Forum Promotes Relevant Debates and Knowledge Exchange

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborgs-globalisation-forum-promotes-relevant-debates-and-knowledge-exchange.htm

Event Gathers Over 300 Participants Including Students, Researchers and Professionals

Bringing together students, researchers and professionals to explore the impact of globalisation across disciplines, the second edition of Wittenborg’s Globalisation Forum took place from 3 to 6 November in Apeldoorn. The event’s programme featured thematic reviews, conceptual papers and innovative approaches to teaching and learning, as well as plenty of activities for students. 

With over 300 people attending, the forum opened at Apeldoorn’s prestigious Orpheus Theatre on 3 November with a keynote speech by Wittenborg’s president, Peter Birdsall, on ‘Education as the Nexus’. Following the opening, senior lecturer Marjon van Opijnen delivered the session ‘Environmental Challenges: Think Small, Act Big’. 

This was followed by a panel discussion on ‘International Education in the Context of Globalisation Challenges’, which featured Tamara Mechurchlishvili, Head of the International Relations Office at the Georgian American University, and Laura Rumbley, Director of Knowledge Development and Research at the European Association for International Education (EAIE). The session also included Wittenborg Head of School of Business Rauf Abdul and Stephen Orme, Head of Business Development and Operations at Wittenborg. 

According to Rumbley, the discussion on issues of equity and fairness as well as the positive and negative aspects of globalisation is really exciting and timely. “On top of that, it’s a really excellent example of co-creation where we’re in dialogue with students about a phenomenon that they’re directly involved in. The interaction of international experiences, voices and perspectives is so important to the quality of education, for the purpose of higher quality of experience and learning, which benefits everybody involved,” she said.

The day continued with presentations from the Erasmus Plus projects Green4ADU, delivered by Cha-Hsuan Liu, and BusyBees, presented by Vanessa de Oliveira Menezes, and concluded with debate training for bachelor’s and master’s students led by Tim Birdsall.  

On 4 November, the activities moved to the Spoorstraat Campus. The day began with a keynote speech by Roeland van der Rijst. He serves as Editor of the International Journal for Academic Development and Pedagogische Studiën and is an Editorial Board Member of Teaching in Higher Education and Future in Educational Research.  

Van der Rijst also joined a panel discussion on ‘Publishing in an Academic Journal’ alongside Wittenborg Rector Ronald Tuninga, Senior Associate Editor of the Journal of Global Marketing, and assistant professor Carlos Miguel Roos, Executive Editor of Empedocles: European Journal for the Philosophy of Communication.  

Roos pointed out that taking part in the panel was useful to compare the ways in which editorship works across different disciplines. “By its very nature, the field of business studies is multidisciplinary, which is why approaches ranging from the humanities to the social sciences were represented in our discussion. I took home a good impression of how academic output is assessed in branches of academia other than mine. Interestingly, I found more similarities than differences in our respective approaches.”

He added that the students’ questions were genuine matters of concern. “It’s a good idea to take these concerns seriously, to pay attention. It’s usually up the younger generations to spot the cracks in the prevalent world pictures and professional practices.” 

After a networking lunch, participants attended a Design Research Methodology workshop led by Wittenborg professor Ad Kil, followed by a research presentation for the Erasmus Plus COVE project ‘TourXperience’. Parallel paper presentations by Patience Orukpe, Cha-Hsuan Liu, Jian Liu and Carlos Roos concluded the academic programme, with closing drinks rounding off the day.

Student debates

The second edition of the Globalisation Forum was tied with this block’s project week. On 5 and 6 November, bachelor’s and master’s students were grouped in teams and participated in lively debate competitions. The results will be announced in the next few days. 

Wittenborg Quality and Compliance Coordinator Florian Oosterberg was responsible for moderating the debates. She said that she really enjoyed the opportunity to engage with the academic side of the institution in a way she hadn’t before as a member of the support staff. “It offered a fresh perspective on how our lecturers work, interact with students and provide feedback, insights that I found personally enriching.”

Oosterberg added that it was inspiring to witness the passion and dedication each team brought to the table during the debates. “The level of preparation was clearly high, and the students demonstrated genuine engagement with the topics at hand. What stood out to me was the diversity in approach among the teams. Some relied heavily on data and evidence to support their arguments, though their delivery could have been more confident and persuasive. Others impressed with their presence and rhetorical skill yet would have benefited from stronger factual backing. Striking the right balance between these elements is a challenge, but also an opportunity for growth.” 

According to her, the motions themselves were far from easy, yet both the proposition and opposition sides presented thoughtful and valid perspectives. “Most importantly, all teams maintained a respectful and professional tone throughout, contributing to a constructive and enjoyable debate environment.” 

Jasmine Shaw, a South African student pursuing a BBA in Marketing & Communications, highlighted that she really enjoyed attending the keynotes, panels and presentations as well as participating in the debates. “I had never taken part in a debate before and found it to be something I really enjoy. Backing up arguments using evidence felt like a constructive and useful skill one could use in practically any context. It’s incredibly useful for students to learn how to disagree and challenge one another in a professional and direct manner,” she said. 

Munich activities

Wittenborg’s Munich study location, the New European College (NEC), also held a Project Week connected to the Globalisation Forum, with students participating in a debating event on topics like globalisation, open borders, immigration and sustainability.  

NEC’s director, Sascha Liebhardt, said that the activity wasn’t just an academic exercise, but also a training ground for real-world thinking. “Students tackled complex topics with curiosity, courage and care. And that, to me, is exactly what education should do: prepare you not just to know the world, but to engage with it,” Liebhardt emphasised.   

Next editions

Wittenborg Research Centre manager Aydan Holtrigter, one of the event’s main organisers, pointed out that the institution plans to host the Globalisation Forum on an annual basis. “It is a great platform to bring young and seasoned researchers and students together, to exchange great ideas and provide students with new opportunities to explore. The next editions will not only be open to our own faculty and students, but also to all our external partner universities. We believe that at this pace, over the next few years, this event can grow into a recognised regional platform for exchange in applied research. We are already looking forward to the next edition,” she concluded.  

WUP 19/11/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

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