1 Sept: Opening academic year at Maastricht University

‘Based in Europe, focused on the world’

On Monday 1 September 2008, Maastricht University celebrates its official opening of the 2008-2009 academic year. The central theme for the opening ceremony, ‘Based in Europe, focused on the world’ is closely connected with the strategic international ambitions of Maastricht University, with a main focus on partnering in research and education in cooperation with business and industry.

This year’s key note address is delivered by Mr. N.R. Narayana Murthy, Chairman of the Board and Chief Mentor of Infosys Technologies Limited, global leader in the “next generation” of IT and consulting. Mr. Murthy founded Infosys in 1981 along with six other software professionals and served as the CEO for 21 years before handing over the reins of the company to co-founder Nandan M. Nilekani in March 2002. For his efforts in making Infosys a global leader in IT services, Narayana Murthy has been appreciated globally and has received many awards including Padma Vibushan - India’s second highest civilian award. Mr. Murthy is an IT advisor to several Asian countries. He serves as an independent director on the boards of several global companies. He is also a member of the advisory boards and councils of several educational institutions.

The other highlights of the programme include the UM president’s opening speech and the presentation of the Student Award and the Hustinx Stipendium.

The ceremony will take place in the “Theater aan het Vrijthof”. The theatre will be open from 2.45 pm. The official part of the ceremony ends at 4.45 pm.

More information: Maastricht University