On Saturday 12th October 2013 the University of Luxembourg officially celebrated its 10th anniversary at a gala event held at the Cercle Municipal in Luxembourg City in the presence of their Royal Highnesses the Grand Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg.

The well-attended event was an opportunity to look back, to celebrate achievements and acknowledge lessons learned. In his opening remarks, Rolf Tarrach, President of the University, reiterated the University’s goal to become, “…a world class university that is relevant to its country.” He also expressed his personal pride at having been President for much of the last decade and thanked the University’s Board of Governors, Rectorate, academic, administrative, scientific and technical staff for their support. Above all he thanked the University’s students “without whom we would not have a University at all.”

Tarrach once again acknowledged Mrs Erna Hennicot-Schoepges, former Minister for Higher Education and Research for her vision and determination, which led to the establishment of the University in 2003.

The keynote speech (PDF) was given by Mr Lars Heikensten, General Director of the Nobel Foundation, who, in keeping with the 10-year theme, took a look back over the last decade’s achievements. In his inspirational presentation, he talked of the tremendous progress that has been made in terms of global communication, increasing the standard of living of many of the world’s neediest people, the spread of democracy and the advances in life sciences and environmental studies, whilst reminding the audience of its shared responsibility to continue to resolve the world’s social, economic and scientific challenges.

A round table discussion was hosted by Natasha Ehrmann (SES S.A.) and included Mrs Martine Hansen, Luxembourg Minister of Higher Education and Research; Romain Bausch, President and CEO of SES S.A.; Gabrijela Reljic, Research Associate and winner of the Best PhD Award 2013; and Rolf Tarrach. The debate discussed the University’s progress so far and took a frank look at its challenges for the future.

The event was closed by Marc Jaeger, Chairman of the University’s Board of Governors who added his voice in support of the University remaining internationally attractive and locally relevant.

Musical entertainment from Maika Grosbusch, former student, and the University of Luxembourg Choir punctuated the morning’s celebrations.

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Luxembourg press were also in attendance. Check out their reactions to our celebration in various articles:

• Luxemburger Wort “Happy Birthday, dear uni lu” article published on Monday 14 October
• Luxemburger Wort video: Luxembourg's finest celebrate decade of learning
• Le Quotidien: Dix ans et déjà tout d'une grande

Moreover, check out these links to read interviews of the Luxemburger Wort with:

• Marc Jaeger, chairman of the board of governors in “Bald eine Medical School in Luxemburg?”
• University President Rolf Tarrach in ” Luxembourg University at 10 - Q&A with Rector, Rolf Tarrach”
• Erna Hennicot-Schoepges, former Minister of Higher Education in “Ein fester Platz auf der Forschungs-Landkarte”

Please check out our 10 Years Celebration photos.

Photo caption: Round table discussion hosted by Natasha Ehrmann (SES S.A.)

© Steve Eastwood / University of Luxembourg