In a rapidly changing world, flexibility is crucial, even for a university. However, flexibility requires a starting point or benchmark. This is necessary to maintain our individuality. For the VUB, that benchmark consists of our core values of free-thinking and humanism. In simpler terms, freedom, equality, and connection with society are the fundamental principles of our university project.
In the present context, this means that we strive to become a learning-oriented, open, connected, welcoming, and appreciative organization. We aim to effectively tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.
By being "learning-oriented," we have an educational vision for the future that emphasizes study progress policy, educational innovation, quality assurance, and internationalization of education. "Open" means we embrace the principles of Open Science, Citizen Science, and science communication. To be "connected," we actively seek regional, national, and international partnerships, while strengthening networks. We emphasize urban engagement, communication strategies, and internationalization of research and education. We interpret "warm and appreciative" as our mission to create a positive studying and working experience at the VUB. We focus on implementing sustainable and integrated welfare policies for both students and staff. Lastly, being "decisive" involves streamlining our internal processes to respond faster and better to the challenges we face.
Our fifth strategic plan, developed under the leadership of Rector Jan Danckaert, outlines how we aim to achieve all these goals. Titled "Cherish what is good, strengthen what must," it builds upon the strengths of our previous strategic plans and introduces new initiatives and concrete developments.
