Over these two festive graduation days, 900 graduates from RSM’s BSc Bedrijfskunde and BSc in International Business Administration (IBA) programmes received their diplomas in front of more than 3,000 guests.
The graduates were preceded by a lively brass band, which immediately set a celebratory tone for the ceremonies. As part of the programme, RSM’s Dean of Education Professor Michel Lander took a short moment to address the ongoing education cuts and the new "Internationalisation in Balance" law.
Think globally, act locally
Dean Michel Lander began by highlighting the significance of education, expressing concern over proposed government cuts to higher education in the Netherlands. Such measures, he argued, jeopardise not only students’ learning experiences but also the broader societal and institutional fabric. He urged attendees to oppose these changes, emphasising that education is a vital investment in the future for everyone.
Turning to the graduates, Prof. Lander celebrated their achievements and their preparation to think globally while acting locally, a trait he believes is essential for tackling today’s challenges. He stressed that business should be a means to achieve a fairer, more sustainable world. Graduates were encouraged to lead with empathy, purpose, and a commitment to building communities.
Prof. Lander reminded the graduates that their decisions have real impact on people’s lives, urging them to carry forward RSM’s values – critical thinking, and to be creative, caring and collaborative – to create positive change in business and society. The speech was both a celebration and a call to action, challenging graduates to make meaningful contributions to a better future.
After each of the ceremonies, there was time to raise a glass and snap a photo with Desiderius Erasmus.
RSM’s bachelor programmes
RSM offers two challenging three-year programmes: the Dutch-language Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Bedrijfskunde (BScBA), and the English-language Bachelor of Science in International Business Administration (BScIBA). Both programmes combine independent research projects and a broad academic grounding with real-world experience including internships, interaction with industry leaders, and the potential for an international exchange with one of RSM’s partner schools. BSc students develop and clarify their particular field of business interest, preparing them for the choices they’ll make after graduation, for example to pursue a master programme in a specific area, get practical experience in a local or international business, or opt for a research-oriented degree at RSM or another university. RSM’s bachelor programmes challenge, stimulate, and develop young business talent within the highly international environment of RSM and Rotterdam.
