A Life-changing Decision: Wittenborg Graduate Shares her International Journey 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/life-changing-decision-wittenborg-graduate-shares-her-international-journey.htm

Yolanda Huang Reflects on How Studying Abroad Shaped her Career

Born and raised in China, Yolanda Huang could easily have stayed there and pursued a government job, as her parents had hoped. But her dream was to build a global career and join an international company, so she chose a different path. In 2003, Yolanda decided to move to the Netherlands to study for an International Business Administration (IBA) degree at Wittenborg. Still in its early years, the school was then based in Deventer.  

The graduate explains that she first heard about Wittenborg when the institution’s then-education coordinator, Stewart Else, visited Shanghai to promote the school to prospective students. “The timing was perfect because I was looking for schools in the Netherlands and Germany, and I liked that Wittenborg offered such a variety of courses. That was the main reason why I chose it,” she says. 

According to Yolanda, the biggest challenge she faced when moving to the Netherlands was studying in English, which she was not used to at first. However, she points out that Wittenborg was very helpful and welcoming to her and the other students coming from abroad. “I feel very lucky because Wittenborg had arranged excellent accommodation for us. They had also assigned some students who had been there longer to support us. They told us about Deventer, gave us practical tips on living in the Netherlands, showed us where the supermarkets were and helped us adjust to our new life.” 

Yolanda also highlights that her time studying at Wittenborg helped her develop important professional skills, such as critical thinking, logical reasoning and research. “Back in China, learning is more focused on memory; students are expected to simply remember what the lecturer is telling them. I found Wittenborg's practical approach very helpful. We went on several field trips to companies and museums and participated in project weeks. My English also became much better.” 

After graduating in 2007, Yolanda moved back to China and secured a job at Education First, a company specialising in teaching English to children and adults, where she worked as an executive assistant performing administrative tasks. She later joined other companies, including the Dutch multinational Vanderlande, which specialises in logistics, and Benteler Automotive Components, where she was responsible for both administrative and human resources tasks. Yolanda is currently based in Shanghai, where she works as an Executive Assistant at Ares Management, a global investment firm. 

Looking back on her Wittenborg experience, Yolanda says that the decision to study abroad changed her life by giving it an international dimension. “What I miss most about Wittenborg are the people. I have great memories of the other students and lecturers, Peter, Maggie and Stewart. Actually, Stewart even attended my wedding in China. I made some special connections there. When I look at Wittenborg now, I’m happy to see that, 18 years later, it’s even more international than it was.” 

The graduate advises current students to build on their professional skills and make the most of their programmes. “Don’t be shy to ask questions to lecturers and the other people there. Make sure to get involved and get engaged, because this is a special experience you’re going through,” she concludes.

WUP 06/08/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press

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

Wittenborg Associate Professor Organises Programme on Global Health at Africa-Asia Conference 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-associate-professor-organises-programme-global-health-africa-asia-conference.htm

Cha-Hsuan Liu Leads Multidisciplinary Initiative Exploring Care, Connection and Humanity in a Cross-Cultural Context

To explore research connections between Africa and Asia and to network with fellow scholars, Wittenborg associate professor Cha-Hsuan Liu participated in the Africa-Asia International Conference-Festival (Confest), held from 11 to 14 June in Dakar, Senegal. 

The event, which also celebrated global integration and local cultures, was organised by Senegal’s Cheikh Anta Diop University in collaboration with the Collective Africa-Southeast Asia Platform from Thailand and Leiden University’s International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS). Comprising 12 thematic clusters, the Confest featured 136 activities including workshops, roundtables, panels and film exhibitions.  

In total, over 500 people from around the world attended the event including participants from Senegal, Kenya, Morocco, Tanzania, South Africa, Japan, Taiwan, India, Indonesia, Brazil, Nigeria, Nepal, the Netherlands and other countries. One of the leading scholars who participated was Professor Moustapha Mbow of Cheikh Anta Diop University, who also serves as an advisor for World Health Organisation (WHO) vaccination programmes in Africa. 

Liu was responsible for organising ‘Healing Through Humanity’, a five-part programme exploring themes of care, connection and collective healing. Among the activities was a presentation she delivered on the MBA thesis by Wittenborg graduate Tyler Sullivan, who analysed how to improve the performance of healthcare NGOs operating in conflict zones.  

“Tyler’s thesis looks at how NGOs use their human and financial resources in different ways and situations. It tries to understand why some organisations manage to reach hundreds of thousands of people around the world, while others don’t. It’s a really relevant and timely topic that brings together healthcare and management,” the associate professor explained.  

The programme also featured presentations of other studies, the roundtable Reimagine Medicine and Healing, a panel discussion, a workshop and a screening of the documentary ‘First Cry’, which tells the story of a mining community in India that built its own hospital. 

Liu highlighted that the discussions were both multidisciplinary and multicultural, bringing together scholars from various fields and professionals from healthcare and other sectors across Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, the Middle East and beyond. She pointed out that the feedback on the programme was very positive, with participants drawing connections between research from different regions and emphasising the importance of human contact and mutual support across cultures. 

“One of the main points of discussion was how Western medicine was imposed on other cultures in the past 200 years, and the impact these changes have had. Collective healing also involves cultural healing, which means recognising the value of traditional practices and integrating them into healthcare systems. We have to remember that modern medicine is actually the accumulated knowledge of thousands of years, and that knowledge needs to be organised and systematised.” 

Liu added that the conference was organised by a network of scholars that has been built up over the years and now includes more than 50 members. She is currently exploring the possibility of starting research projects at Wittenborg connected to this initiative.   

“The idea is to coordinate researchers from different parts of the world to develop a humanistic model that can be implemented in healthcare management. Wittenborg could really contribute to this project due to its expertise in business and management, and also because it’s the most diverse and international university of applied sciences in the Netherlands.” 

WUP 04/08/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG3: Good Health and Well-being
#SDG17: Partnerships to achieve the Goal
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#research

 Fun & Culture for Everyone: What’s Happening in Apeldoorn This August

https://www.wittenborg.eu/fun-culture-everyone-whats-happening-apeldoorn-august.htm

 City Hosts DE OPENING Programme Featuring a Variety of Open-Air Events

In August, Apeldoorn transforms into a vibrant cultural hub, with events ranging from music concerts and theatre performances to museum exhibitions, rap battles and more. Here are some of the highlights happening across the city:

A midsummer night’s club

How about kicking off the September academic block with an evening full of fun, good vibes and great music?

On 26 August, starting at 19:00, Van Reekumplein Square will turn into the stage for STUFU, Apeldoorn’s biggest student fest. The programme features lively performances by Billy Dans, Nachtdienst and DJ Riva Soull.

Tickets are € 7.50 and can be purchased here.  

Discover Apeldoorn’s museums

As part of DE OPENING, the new festival marking the national start of the cultural season, Apeldoorn’s museums will host a variety of special events. 

On Saturday, 30 August, CODA (Vosselmanstraat 299) will be open to the public with free admission from 10:00 to 17:00. Everyone is welcome to explore the museum and enjoy art and culture. One highlight is the Paper Art exhibition, showcasing a diverse range of works and techniques – from intricately folded forms to large-scale paper installations. 

The Apeldoorn Centre for Contemporary Culture (ACEC), located at Roggestraat 44, will also open its doors with free admission on 30 August from 12:00 to 21:00. The programme includes live concerts, a festive art parade and the exhibition How = Now 2025, featuring works by more than 100 artists from Gelderland and Overijssel. 

From 29 to 31 August, Oranjepark will be transformed into an open-air museum bursting with stories. This initiative features specially designed installations that offer a surprising blend of art, nature and history. Each container represents a different monument, institution or museum from Apeldoorn: ACEC, CODA, Oranjepark’s Bandstand, Het Loo Palace and the Kröller-Müller Museum.

DE OPENING concerts

Also part of DE OPENING are several concerts taking place across different areas of the city.  

On 29 and 30 August – from 17:30 to 22:30 on Friday and from 15:00 to 22:30 on Saturday – Marktplein (Market Square) will be transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, music and socialising. Friday’s programme features performances by Reitse Machiel, Marc Floor, Matthijn Buwalda and RONDÉ. On Saturday, Marktplein will host the largest silent disco Apeldoorn has ever seen. 

Held at Het Loo Palace on 31 August, Musical Awards: The Kick-Off is a festive evening featuring live previews from several upcoming musicals. The event is organised in collaboration with the Musical Awards Foundation, which promotes and certifies Dutch musical productions. AVROTROS will record the entire programme, which will be broadcast live on NPO 1. Admission is free.  

Hip hop and urban vibes

If you’re into hip hop and street culture, don’t miss the Urban APD Festival on 31 August at Marktplein, from 12:00 to 17:00. The programme includes rap battles, workshops, live performances and more, all with free admission. The event also features the preliminary round of the new city rapper election, along with impressive freestyle demos and high-energy acts.

Open-air theatre  

Apeldoorn’s renowned Orpheus Theatre (Churchillplein 1) will host a series of open-air events from 29 to 30 August, featuring stand-up comedy, spoken word and aerobic performances – all with free entry. 

On 29 and 31 August, the Orpheus Opening Show invites the audience to take the stage in a unique 360° experience, with performances unfolding in unexpected spots throughout the auditorium. More information and tickets are available on the event’s website.

WUP 01/08/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

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

EBA Students Explore Data Extraction and Descriptive Statistics

https://www.wittenborg.eu/eba-students-explore-data-extraction-and-descriptive-statistics.htm

James Nevin Dives into Data Extraction and Statistics

Students from the Entrepreneurial Business Administration (EBA) programme at Wittenborg were given a practical look into the world of data during an online guest lecture by James Nevin, a researcher currently working in Tokyo. The session was part of the Data Analytics module and focused on how to find, collect and understand data—skills that are becoming more and more important in nearly every industry.

Nevin, who holds a PhD in Computer Science and has a background in Mathematical Finance, has over six years of experience in data science. In his lecture, he explained how understanding data sources and learning how to work with them are essential for making better decisions in business. “Data are used in all industries,” he told students. “Knowing how to collect them is incredibly important.”

He introduced four common ways that businesses extract data. The first is through local files—like Excel spreadsheets, CSVs or text documents—that are often stored on a computer. The second method involves using APIs, which are tools that allow different programmes to communicate and share data automatically, without manual downloads. The third approach, web scraping, involves using code to pull useful information from websites. Finally, he discussed SQL databases, which are structured systems that store large amounts of information in organised tables and are often used by companies to manage customer or product data.

Once students understood how to gather data, Nevin moved on to the basics of analysing it. He explained how simple statistics like the mean and median can help describe the average or middle value in a dataset. He also talked about standard deviation, which shows how spread out the numbers are, and correlation, which helps identify relationships between two different sets of data. These tools, though basic, are key to making sense of large amounts of information and spotting trends that matter.

Although the lecture was held online and interaction with students was limited, Nevin offered clear advice to those interested in pursuing data-related careers. “Take your time with the tools,” he said. “Don’t be afraid to try things yourself.” He emphasised that learning to work with data isn’t just about theory—it’s about experimenting, exploring and applying what you learn to real situations.

To help students go further, Nevin also shared several helpful online resources where they can find data and practise their skills. These include sites that offer real datasets, economic and financial statistics, public government data, and tools for accessing APIs. He also recommended Python libraries like Pandas and BeautifulSoup, which are popular among beginners and professionals for analysing and collecting data.

WUP 31/07/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

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

Shayesteh Nasabi Wins Best Master’s Thesis Award for Boss Fragrances Case Study 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/shayesteh-nasabi-wins-best-masters-thesis-award-boss-fragrances-case-study.htm

How Packaging Influences Generation Y Women’s Perfume Purchases

What makes a Generation Y woman reach for a perfume on the shelf? Is it the bottle’s shape or the colour of the packaging? These were some of the key questions Wittenborg graduate Shayesteh Nasabi set out to explore in her thesis titled ‘Examining the Impact of Packaging Elements on Purchase Decisions of Female Generation Y Consumers: A Case Study on Boss Fragrances’.

For her thesis, submitted in 2024, Nasabi focused on how visual and verbal packaging elements affect the buying decisions of Generation Y (millennials) women shopping for Boss perfumes in Amsterdam. By closely examining consumer reactions, she revealed which design features truly influence purchases in the premium fragrance market.

Her work stood out for its depth and practical insights, earning her the Best Thesis Award for 2024 during Wittenborg’s recent summer graduation ceremony.

From theory to shelves: how packaging sells

Nasabi, originally from Iran, graduated with a Master of Business Management in Digital Marketing and Communication. Her thesis focused on the role of packaging in the cosmetics industry, particularly how it influences millennial women who are often targeted by luxury fragrance brands.

“Packaging is a critical element of the marketing mix that influences consumer behaviour, especially at the point of sale,” she explained. “In the premium fragrance industry, packaging is often the first interaction consumers have with the product, making it essential for influencing purchasing decisions.”

Her research specifically focused on secondary packaging — the outer box and visual elements surrounding the perfume bottle. She chose Boss as a case study, conducting interviews in three of the brand’s stores in Amsterdam: Bijenkorf, Leidsestraat and P.C. Hooftstraat.

A methodical and consumer-centred approach

To collect meaningful data, Nasabi conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 female Generation Y consumers who had purchased or used Boss women perfumes. All participants were approached in-store between November 2023 and March 2024, with prior consent from store management.

The interviews explored several topics:

-Visual packaging elements: colour, shape, size, typography, material and graphics
-Verbal packaging elements: brand name and product information
-Emotional responses to packaging
-Moderating factors like time pressure, level of involvement and education
-Purchasing habits and brand loyalty

The qualitative data was analysed thematically and supported by a literature review to build a conceptual framework.

Findings: what really sways the buyer?

The study revealed that visual packaging elements had a stronger influence on purchase decisions than verbal ones. Among visual factors, shape was the most impactful — cited by 18 out of 20 participants — followed by colour, cited by 17. These visual cues were associated with perceptions of modernity, uniqueness and innovation, building trust in the Boss brand.

Verbal elements like brand name and product information were less influential overall, but gained importance under time pressure. In situations where consumers had less time to compare options, the brand/model name served as a shortcut for quality and familiarity.

All participants considered Boss perfumes to be high-involvement products, requiring thoughtful decisions — which explains the dominance of visual cues in normal shopping conditions.

Interestingly, educational background also played a role. Those with bachelor’s degrees focused more on visual aspects, while master’s degree holders considered both visual and verbal elements when making their purchasing decisions.

Life after Wittenborg

Nasabi is now working as a Business Development Executive at Van Caem Klerks Group, an international trading house with over fifty years of expertise in the import/export industry.  

When asked what she enjoyed most about writing her thesis, she said:

“I really enjoyed conducting qualitative research and speaking directly with consumers — especially analysing their emotional and behavioural responses to packaging. It made the research come alive.”

She also credited her academic supervisor, Wittenborg’s Andreas Ooijer, and Wittenborg’s faculty for their support, as well as the Hugo Boss store teams and her partner for encouraging her through the process.

For current and future Wittenborg students preparing their final research projects, Nasabi offered practical advice:

“Choose a topic you are genuinely interested in and that has real-world relevance. Narrow your scope early to keep your project manageable. Use clear research models, collect data ethically and always connect your findings back to the literature.”

WUP 30/07/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

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

Promoting Global Education: Wittenborg Attends ICEF Events in Africa and Southeast Asia 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/promoting-global-education-wittenborg-attends-icef-events-africa-and-southeast-asia.htm

School Connects with Agents and Professionals Around the World

In line with Wittenborg’s pillar of internationalisation, the school recently participated in two ICEF events in different continents: Africa and Asia. These events provided valuable opportunities to network with student agents and higher education professionals, as well as to stay updated on the latest industry trends.  

From 25 to 27 June, Wittenborg President Peter Birdsall and Regional Admissions Manager Eunice Cheung attended ICEF Africa at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda. The event brought together more than 300 professionals from over 25 countries. 

According to Cheung, ICEF Africa stood out for its excellent organisation and warm hospitality. “I’m very pleased with the outcome of the event. It was highly successful and showed that Africa has great potential for international student recruitment, particularly from countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. Additionally, it provided valuable insights into a rapidly growing market and allowed for strong connections with both new and existing agents. What stood out most to me was the high level of interest in the Netherlands as a study destination, especially due to its efficient visa process and welcoming environment for African students,” she said.  

The Regional Admissions Manager noted that she had the opportunity to meet several new agents who are actively shifting their focus from the United States and Canada to Europe. “Many shared key insights about student preferences, particularly the growing demand for English-taught programmes and concerns about visa processes. Some agents also pointed out that while Germany remains popular, language barriers and financial requirements are prompting students to explore alternatives like the Netherlands.”  

She added that the agents’ level of enthusiasm was encouraging. “There’s clearly a strong opportunity for Wittenborg to strengthen its presence in this region. I believe continued engagement and visibility in these markets will be key to long-term success.”

Promoting Global Education: Wittenborg Attends ICEF Events in Africa and Southeast Asia 
A few days earlier, from 10 to 12 June, Recruitment & Sales Representative Michael Sheppard represented Wittenborg at ICEF South East Asia in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The event was attended by representatives from 200 higher education institutions around the world and 300 agents from across Southeast Asia.   

Sheppard praised the event, noting that the Netherlands and Europe are clearly growing in popularity as study destinations, with Wittenborg at the forefront of many students’ plans for a European education.   

“ICEF is always well-organised and brings together the best institutions and the best agencies. Vietnam was well represented, especially its two largest cities: Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. It was also great to meet agents working in smaller cities like Haiphong, Hue and Da Nang. I even connected with agents from less represented countries, such as Myanmar, which was a great experience and led to insightful discussions.”   

For him, being in Vietnam is always a pleasant experience. “I really enjoy spending time there. It’s such a vibrant country; the people are incredibly friendly, and their culture and history are fascinating.”  

WUP 29/07/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

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

Best Bachelor Thesis of the Year: Sofiia Evdokimova Wins for Research on Digital Ruble 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/best-bachelor-thesis-year-sofiia-evdokimova-wins-research-digital-ruble.htm

Study Analysed Consumer Perceptions of the Digital Ruble and the Factors Influencing its Adoption

On 11 July, Sofiia Evdokimova’s graduation assignment was awarded Best Bachelor Thesis of the Year 2024 during Wittenborg’s Summer Graduation Ceremony at the Grote Kerk in Apeldoorn. Her study focuses on a timely subject: the introduction of the Digital Ruble in Russia and the key factors influencing its acceptance by consumers. 

Sofiia completed an International Bachelor of Administration (IBA) in Economics and Management at Wittenborg. With the Bank of Russia aiming to launch the Digital Ruble nationally in 2025, her research brings valuable insights into the human side of digital currency implementation, and how governments and financial institutions can ensure its success. 

“The success of Russia’s Digital Ruble pilot depends on public acceptance, which is influenced by users’ perceptions and understanding of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC),” she explained. “I chose this topic to address the existing gap in research on Russian consumers’ attitudes and behaviours toward CBDC.” 

Her research used a combination of surveys and interviews to gather data. The survey collected responses from 185 people in Russia who fit the user profile for CBDC, while 13 interviewees – including banking specialists, academics, central bank executives and financial experts – shared their views on broader adoption factors. Topics ranged from the public’s awareness of CBDC to issues of security, functionality and trust. 

The findings revealed a moderate level of interest (60%) among Russian consumers but low overall readiness to adopt the Digital Ruble. According to Sofiia, this reluctance stems largely from limited digital literacy, lack of awareness and trust issues. Common concerns among survey respondents included security, technical stability and unclear benefits. 

At the same time, participants highlighted their preferences for features such as strong security, data privacy, wide acceptance, high speed and ease of use. Based on these results, the study concludes that the Central Bank of Russia should focus on improving public education, offering clear communication and ensuring broad accessibility and trust in the system to boost adoption. 

Reflecting on the research process, the graduate said she especially valued the real-world perspective gained through interviews: “I really enjoyed conducting interviews, as they gave me a deeper understanding of the topic and added a valuable real-world perspective to my research. Talking with people who are deeply involved in the field was extremely encouraging and motivating, since the topic truly interests me.” 

She also highlighted the importance of mentorship and academic support. “Working with my supervisor, Lasantha De Silva, was both exciting and insightful; I learned a lot from his guidance and feedback.” 

Now back in Russia, Sofiia is working as a corporate finance specialist. “At the moment, I'm focused on building my experience and expertise in the finance field, and my main career goal is to grow into a more strategic role where I can shape big financial decisions,” she said. 

To students currently working on their graduation assignments, she advises: “Choose a topic that genuinely interests you, as it will keep you motivated throughout the whole process. Time management is crucial when writing your thesis, start early and break your work into smaller parts. It will help you avoid last-minute stress and will keep you focused. Additionally, always seek feedback from your supervisor or peers. It will greatly improve the quality of your work and help you stay motivated.”

WUP 28/07/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
#Internationalisation
#internationalstudent
#research

Enjoy the Best of Summer in Apeldoorn 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/enjoy-best-summer-apeldoorn.htm

City Brimming with Music Concerts, Museum Exhibitions, Sports Activities and More  

We’re nearing the middle of summer in the Netherlands, and there’s still plenty to do in Apeldoorn. During the year’s warmest season, the city becomes a hub for cultural, sports and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for something to do on your own, with friends or with family, here’s your go-to guide:

Live music in the air

Musical events across all genres are scheduled over the coming weeks, many of them open-air and with free admission. Every Sunday until 31 August, GIGANT (Nieuwstraat 377) hosts the CityOasis festival from 14:00 to 22:00. The event offers refreshing drinks, delicious food, silent discos and live music every week. 

Oranjepark also becomes the stage for Sunday afternoon concerts featuring styles such as blues, country, rock, jazz and more. You can check the full programme online.  

On 22 and 23 August, starting at 18:30 and 17:30 respectively, the third Beer & Blues Festival will take place at SOAP (Vlijtseweg 100), bringing the best of blues, soul and R&B to Apeldoorn. 

If you're into electronic music like hard house, trance and hard techno, don’t miss ABNØRMAAL’s stage at the Night of Apeldoorn (Nacht van Apeldoorn) on 29 August from 19:00 at Van Reekumplein (behind GIGANT).  

A toast to summer

For the first time ever, the TAPT Festival is coming to Zwitsal Apeldoorn (Vlijtseweg 120A) on 1 and 2 August, bringing a big summer celebration. Alongside craft beer, the event will offer cocktails, wine, street food, lawn games, Disco Bingo and dancing in the sun. Check out the event’s website for tickets and more information. 

Zwitsal Apeldoorn will also host the city’s Wine Festival on 22 and 23 August, featuring a fine selection of wines, smooth music and a variety of treats including cheese platters, charcuterie and surprising vegetarian dishes. Alcohol-free drinks will also be available. Tickets start at € 12.95 and can be purchased on the event’s website.

Let’s get moving

This summer, Sportservice Apeldoorn is once again organising an extensive programme of sporting activities. With more than 40 free events, options include canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, beach volleyball, boot camps, football tournaments, dance workshops, snorkelling and more. Check the programme and register for activities here.

DE OPENING

From Thursday 29 to Saturday 31 August, Apeldoorn will host DE OPENING, a brand-new, free festival marking the national start of the cultural season. Expect three vibrant days filled with performances, pop-up acts, exhibitions and a spectacular opening show at Marktplein. Leading cultural venues such as Paleis Het Loo, the Kröller-Müller Museum, Orpheus Theatre, GIGANT and CODA will present special programming. 

On Saturday 31 August, AVROTROS will broadcast Musical Awards: The Kick-Off live from Paleis Het Loo. Another highlight is the exhibition How = Now 2025 at ACEC, showcasing works by more than 100 artists from Gelderland and Overijssel. This is a unique opportunity to see Apeldoorn transformed into an open-air museum and stage.

Open-air film festival

Movie lovers can indulge in Apeldoorn’s traditional Open Air Film Festival, taking place from 22 to 30 August at Stadspark Berg & Bos. The programme features a wide range of films, many of them in English and suitable for the whole family. For tickets and more information, visit the event’s website.  

Hunting for treasures

Whether you are a collector or simply enjoy browsing antique markets, there is plenty happening in Apeldoorn this summer. 

On 14 August, Apeldoorn will host its renowned Antiques and Curios Market, the largest event of its kind in the Netherlands. Taking place from 09:00 to 16:30 on Market Square in the city centre, the market will bring together traders, collectors and antique enthusiasts from the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. A wide range of food and drink stalls will also be available throughout the day. 

More than 4,000 books will be available at the book market held at Denksportcentrum Noord (Sleutelbloemstraat 22A) on 30 August, from 10:30 to 15:00. Most titles will be priced at € 1 or € 2, covering a wide range of genres including fiction, science, history, biographies, poetry and more. 

Every Saturday from 26 July to 16 August, between 09:00 and 15:00, more than 200 vendors take part in the car boot sales held on the lawn along Landgoedlaan. Proceeds from the market support aid shipments to Eastern Europe, organised by the WHOE foundation. 

If you love a good bargain, don’t miss the ‘Rug Festival’ (‘Kleedjes Festijn’) on 23 August, from 10:00 to 15:00. Held at the Nettenfabriek parking lot (Spoorstraat 27b), the event offers everything from mugs and statuettes to electronic devices and more.

WUP 25/07/2025 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press 

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

Summer Graduation: Wittenborg Celebrates the Next Wave of Global Changemakers 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/summer-graduation-wittenborg-celebrates-next-wave-global-changemakers.htm

Wittenborg Summer Graduation Sparks Inspiration for Class of 2025

On 11 July, Wittenborg held its summer graduation ceremony at the Grote Kerk in Apeldoorn. Graduates, their families, faculty and local officials gathered to celebrate the achievements of bachelor’s and master’s students.

Wittenborg and Apeldoorn: A Shared Future

Deputy Mayor of Apeldoorn, Nick Derks, a special guest at the event, reminded graduates that Wittenborg is more than just a school in Apeldoorn; it is part of the city’s fabric. “You—its students, staff and alumni—are part of our city’s story,” he said. “Your presence, projects and ambitions have brought energy, creativity and purpose to our local community. And we want to see more of this.”

Derks highlighted the recent Job Fair for English Speakers held at Apeldoorn City Hall where hundreds of students, alumni and expats connected with local companies. “Seeing the talent, the companies and the intense conversations, it all took place right here in our city. That was simply amazing.”

Acknowledging challenges in the Dutch labour market, he urged graduates to stay and contribute. “There’s a need for people like you who don’t mind working hard, who are ready to help drive innovation, sustainability and growth. We want you to stay in the Netherlands, in our region, in Apeldoorn. Bring your ideas, your entrepreneurial mindset, your drive and your energy to our economy. Together, we can build a young, vibrant and future-ready region.”

Reflecting on Achievements and Looking Ahead

MBA (Master of Business Administration) student Arvin Gharib from Iran spoke on behalf of his peers, sharing a heartfelt reflection on the sacrifices behind their success. “We left behind our homes, families and friends in pursuit of a dream and a purpose. Every challenge faced, every sleepless night, every moment of doubt was worth it. Today, we stand here ready to embrace the future.”

Nikita Pahwa, Assistant Professor of Applied Sciences, introduced the MBA students warmly, acknowledging their courage and resilience. “You arrived from all corners of the globe, bags packed with clothes, minds brimming with questions, and hearts full of hope,” she said. “Together, you navigated the complexities of Dutch systems, weather, housing and deadlines. Sometimes chaotic, always united.”

She spoke about the turbulent global backdrop against which the graduates persevered, from conflicts and economic instability to humanitarian crises. “Despite it all, you kept learning, collaborating and growing. That, to me, is the very definition of resilience.”

Pahwa emphasised that their education extends far beyond a qualification. “You’ve forged friendships across continents, gained a truly global outlook, and developed skills that will serve you well beyond any job title. Life rarely follows a straight path; it zigs and zags, and at times feels uncertain, and that’s perfectly okay.”

Her parting message was clear: stay curious, stay generous and stay connected. “Keep learning, help others when you can, and remain in touch with us. Your stories—the triumphs, the lessons, even the setbacks—are all part of your journey. Wittenborg isn’t just where you studied, it’s where you discovered who you could become.”

Assistant Professor Hind Albasry addressed the MBM (Master of Business Management) students, praising their growth as critical thinkers and responsible leaders. “You have honed skills in strategy, innovation and decision-making that will serve you well in today’s fast-paced, complex business world. Keep your minds open to lifelong learning—I’m confident you’re ready.”

Lecturer Emmah Muchoki spoke to the bachelor’s graduates about the knowledge, friendships and resilience they have cultivated. “You have learned to question, collaborate and persevere. These aren’t just academic skills, but life skills that will support you wherever your path leads.”

Bachelor’s representative Alexandra Kukhtina offered a personal reflection on embracing one’s unique journey. “Each of us holds a ticket for our own flight—you cannot board someone else’s, no matter how appealing it seems. You are exactly where you need to be. You don’t have to be the best to make a difference. Your unique story truly matters.”

After everyone received their diplomas, Kriszta Kaspers, Head of Education Development and Quality Management, announced the Best Thesis of the Year Awards. At bachelor’s level, Sofiia Evdokimova received the honour, while Shayesteh Nasabi was recognised at master’s level.

Embracing AI with Balance and Growth

The ceremony ended with a keynote from Xander Kupers, Senior Modern Workplace Specialist at Microsoft. Using Microsoft Copilot, he congratulated the graduates and spoke about the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their work and studies.

“You’ve already used AI for your theses and assignments, and that’s a good thing,” he said. “But a recent study shows that relying on AI too much can weaken critical thinking.”

Kupers introduced the Goldilocks principle, finding the balance that is “just right”, encouraging graduates to embrace challenges without becoming overwhelmed. “Real fulfilment comes from facing and overcoming obstacles. That discomfort is part of growth.”

He urged the graduates to use AI for routine tasks but warned against losing the value of creative struggle. “Wrestling with problems and frustration builds deeper learning and stronger skills.”

Kupers closed by reminding the graduates to keep a growth mindset and find their “sweet spot” where challenge meets ability. “The future is uncertain and you will face setbacks. Learn from them and keep pushing forward. You have already risen to challenges here at Wittenborg. You will continue to grow, sometimes with AI, but always with your own courage and determination.”

WUP 23/07/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

Tags
#SDG4: Quality Education
#SDG8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
#Internationalisation
#Diversity
#Ethics
#internationalstudent
#studyinholland
#wittenborgfamily
#apeldoorn

Employers in the Netherlands Value International Graduates, Nuffic Report Confirms 

https://www.wittenborg.eu/employers-netherlands-value-international-graduates-nuffic-report-confirms.htm

International Graduates Bring Innovation and Global Perspective to Dutch Workplaces

International graduates are increasingly recognised as vital contributors to the Dutch labour market, according to a new report by Nuffic titled International Graduates in the Workplace – The Employer’s Perspective.  

Drawing on insights from a survey of 382 employers and 34 in-depth interviews with company representatives, the study shows that nearly 80% of employers experience more advantages than disadvantages from hiring international employees – particularly those who have studied in the Netherlands.

Maike Zürcher, HR Manager at Wittenborg, says: “International graduates typically bring flexibility, adaptability and resilience. They are eager to learn and contribute.” She adds that international staff bring diverse perspectives that broaden the company’s outlook and encourage innovation. “They help to prevent being stuck in a country-specific mindset, which is very beneficial for companies wanting to expand their global reach.”

The report highlights the value of international graduates holding Dutch degrees, which provide employers with confidence that these candidates meet local standards and understand Dutch society and work culture. Many graduates gain familiarity with the Dutch way of working through internships during their studies.

Employers in the study also emphasise soft skills such as communication, cultural awareness and emotional intelligence as key strengths of international graduates. According to the report, these personal qualities are often valued more highly than complex technical skills, which are considered teachable.

Zürcher notes a growing interest among Dutch employers in recruiting international graduates: “In the Randstad it has been common for years that the working language shifts to English and companies are more open to recruiting internationals. More and more, this is something that we also observe in companies outside of Randstad, for example in and around Apeldoorn.”

She adds: “Even very people-focused businesses, such as hotels in the region, now employ people who do not necessarily speak Dutch. That in turn leads to normalising it for customers which creates more and more opportunities for internationals.”

Employers in the report expressed the need for closer cooperation with universities, including facilitating internships and providing a dedicated contact person at institutions to improve the transition from study to work.

Wittenborg’s External Relations & Events Manager, Sophia Faraji, also explored this topic in her 2023 master’s thesis, which examined the employability of international graduates from universities of applied sciences in the Netherlands. Her research found that international graduates bring valuable cross-cultural communication skills, adaptability and a global outlook to the Dutch labour market – insights that closely align with the findings of the Nuffic report.

To read the full report International Graduates in the Workplace – The Employer’s Perspective, visit Nuffic’s website.

WUP 21/07/2025 
by Erene Roux 
©WUAS Press 

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