36th Dies Natalis: Learning together

30 January 2025

On 29 January 2025, the University of Humanistic Studies celebrated its 36th Dies Natalis. This festive day focused on the theme ‘Learning together’ through the lens of education. The world around us is constantly changing and we are challenged to relate to it as a university. How do we ensure an inclusive learning community? What (ethical) issues should we consider as AI plays an increasing role? What does this mean for our education?

Inclusive learning community

Doret de Ruyter, Director of Education and Professor of Education, gave an introduction on the importance of learning together. Then education specialist Siema Ramdas of the Free University addressed the question of how to create an inclusive learning community. 

'If you want to train students who can build on different perspectives, you have to make sure they have a good interaction with someone with a different perspective. You first need to step back and ask questions like: what is my perspective and what has shaped me? And it takes a context where students feel safe to express themselves.'

Challenges of AI

Philosopher and mathematician Jan Broersen, professor of logical methods in Artificial Intelligence at Utrecht University, posed the urgent question: now that we have AI, what should we teach students? He outlined not only the challenges, but also the opportunities AI offers for education. ‘Above all, we need to teach students an understanding of AI, its capabilities and its limitations.’

Head of education policy and student affairs Arjan Eijkelestam closed the meeting with a call for continued attention to today's issues.

On 29 January 2025, our university celebrated its 36th Dies Natalis. The theme ‘Learning together’ through the lens of education was the focus.