‘Universities are crucial in addressing the major societal challenges of our time,’ says Verbeek. ‘Think of climate change, digitalisation, inequality and an ageing population. And we cannot do this on our own.’ This is why, in the coming years, the UvA will increasingly collaborate with other universities, with social partners and with the business community, including at the international level. 

Contributing to special projects 

Financially, this is also necessary, as the university has to take into account a steady decline in financial support from the government. Verbeek: ‘These funding streams have been decreasing for years, which makes the UvA Fund increasingly important.’ Bussink agrees: the UvA Fund exists precisely for those projects that may not receive sufficient resources from regular budgets, but are nevertheless vital for the future. ‘For example, projects in the areas of sustainability, social resilience, entrepreneurship and a healthy society. We see that donors to the UvA Fund are keen to contribute to these.’ 

Opportunities for talent 

The Fund also offers additional support for UvA students and researchers. Verbeek: ‘What I find so valuable about the Fund is that it creates extra opportunities for talented students and researchers. It enables them to do things for which they would otherwise lack the means, such as studying abroad or initiating a first research project.’ That is far from self-evident, he explains. ‘Inequality in our society may not always appear to be very great, but it certainly exists. For many people, the UvA Fund really makes a decisive difference.’ 

Looking ahead 

In 2032, the UvA will celebrate its 400th anniversary. A fitting occasion to start thinking about the future now. Verbeek: ‘My hope is that, by then, researchers will draw their questions even more directly from societal issues, and will also be able to translate the outcomes of their research back to society. What is your dream for 2032?’ 

Bussink especially looks forward to an active, engaged and inclusive UvA community. ‘I hope that donors and partners – but above all students, staff and alumni of the UvA – will find and support one another more and more. This can be through knowledge, networks, and financial means. Our community is already growing strongly, and I am very much looking forward to helping it grow further.’