Ending poverty, inequality and climate change in 2030. These are just several of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that the 14 Dutch universities are helping the United Nations to achieve. The academic breakthroughs being made at the Dutch universities are generating solutions to these social challenges. Moreover, around a quarter million students are working on their futures at these universities and, by doing this, are working on the future of our society as well.

During the ceremonial opening of the 2019-2020 academic year, each of the universities clearly outlined their ambitions and contributions to society. With themes like creating a positive social impact, climate policy, academic responsibility and governance for society, (new) students were inspired to use the knowledge they gain during the course of their studies to benefit Dutch society.

The situation of our academic staff was also discussed. Due to a combination of the huge jump in student numbers and dwindling funds for teaching and research, they are working under considerable pressure. Funding will be crucial if new scope is to be created for talent and the present quality of education and research is to be maintained. Both will enable us to successfully use our knowledge to help resolve important challenges, in the Netherlands as well as the rest of the world.

If you would like to know more about how Dutch universities contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, click here.

Happy reading and viewing in this latest issue of our e-zine.

Pieter Duisenberg
President
Association of Universities in the Netherlands