HomeNews & eventsCorporate announcementsFrans Timmermans delivers speech at 61st Dies Natalis
Photo credits European Commission

Frans Timmermans delivers speech at 61st Dies Natalis

Frans Timmermans, executive vice-president of the European Commission, delivers the Dies speech at the 61st Dies Natalis of the University of Twente. This year's traditional celebration of the university's birthday will be held on Friday 12 May at 15.00h.

This year's Dies Natalis will focus on the existential challenges we face in the climate and environmental crises. Sustainability is written in bold letters in our vision, Shaping2030. We want to build a fair, sustainable and digital society through our research and education. It is an ambitious commitment that requires us to find new innovative solutions and educate the next generation of professionals who will shape the world of tomorrow.

Green transition

Frans Timmermans will discuss how the EU and its member states are trailblazing a green transition at home, decarbonising our economy and society and moving towards renewable energy while leaving no one behind. But also, how the EU is marshalling partners globally to tackle the climate and environmental crises together

Full programme

In addition to Frans Timmermans' Dies speech, we have set up a full and inspiring programme for the afternoon. For instance, university professor Albert van den Berg and assistant professor Cheryl de Boer will speak about their green ambitions and dreams, and we will give ambitious talented students the stage.

In the course of next week, you will find the full programme of the Dies Natalis on utwente.nl/dies. If you would you like to register in advance, you may do so using the registration form.