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Understanding Discrimination at Work: MBM Thesis Compares Dutch and Nigerian Companies

Understanding Discrimination at Work: MBM Thesis Compares Dutch and Nigerian Companies

Obumneme Ejiofor’s Study Focused on Banking and Retail Sectors

https://www.wittenborg.eu/understanding-discrimination-work-mbm-thesis-compares-dutch-and-nigerian-companies.htm

Having worked in Human Resources in both Nigeria and the Netherlands, Wittenborg graduate Obumneme Ejiofor observed how the Diversity & Inclusion department is an integral part of HR in most Dutch companies. This inspired him to conduct his thesis research on this topic, in order to obtain an MBM degree in Human Resource Management.  

“I got really intrigued and decided to learn more about the prevalence of discrimination in the Netherlands. On top of that, I thought that it would be interesting to see how it compares to a developing economy that is also constituted of workers from multiple backgrounds but does not have the Diversity & Inclusion department integrated into its companies. And, more importantly, I wanted to understand the effect that discrimination has on employee job satisfaction in both of these countries, and what factors can mitigate these effects,” he explains.

Obumneme’s study focused on Nigerian and Dutch companies from the banking and retail industries, and he chose these sectors because they are well-represented in both countries, providing a good basis for comparison.  

The research employs a quantitative method, based on a structured questionnaire that was answered by a total of 339 participants, out of which 155 are from Nigeria and 184 from the Netherlands. To reach these respondents, Obumneme contacted them on LinkedIn and also relied on the assistance of their professional associations.  

Call for Papers Submissions for Annual Globalisation Conference Open until 1 April

Call for Papers Submissions for Annual Globalisation Conference Open until 1 April

Event Organised by Wittenborg to Take Place 14 -16 August in Apeldoorn

https://www.wittenborg.eu/call-papers-submissions-annual-globalisation-conference-open-until-1-april.htm

Wittenborg invites researchers, industry professionals, students and policy makers to submit papers and posters to the first edition of its Annual Globalisation Conference, taking place from 14 to 16 August in Apeldoorn. 

Submissions are open until 1 April, while registration as a participant is possible until 1 August (both forms are available on this link, at the bottom of the page). 

It must be stressed that the works submitted need to be aligned with one of the conference’s 10 key themes: 1) The Digital Revolution, 2) Global Trade and Economics, 3) Cultural Exchange in a Globalised World, 4) Migration Patterns, 5) Environmental Challenges, 6) Global Governance and Policy, 7) The Future of Work, 8) Ethics and Globalisation, 9) Global Health and Pandemics and 10) Education in a Globalised Era. 

The event’s website features detailed information on the guidelines for submitting posters and papers. It is worth noting that the conference accepts both theoretical/academic papers and industry/applied papers, including educational papers focused on describing innovative teaching methods, modules and curricula, or other topics related to education within the field of hospitality and tourism. 

Wittenborg president Peter Birdsall emphasised that the Annual Globalisation Conference will provide great opportunities for sharing knowledge and broadening participants’ professional and academic horizons. 

Why Do Millennials Buy Fast Fashion Items? Wittenborg Student Investigates

Why Do Millennials Buy Fast Fashion Items? Wittenborg Student Investigates

The Influential Factors Guiding Millennials towards Fast Fashion Choices

https://www.wittenborg.eu/why-do-millennials-buy-fast-fashion-items-wittenborg-student-investigates.htm

On 1 December, Elham Barzegar, from Iran, presented her Graduation Assignment and Final Project (GA/FP) Oral Defence in Apeldoorn, shining a spotlight on environmentally unsustainable practices within the fast fashion industry.

The fast fashion industry, known for its swift production cycles and trend-centric approach, has faced scrutiny for its environmental impact. Barzegar, specialising in Digital Marketing and Communication within the Master of Business Management programme at Wittenborg, focused her final thesis on the purchasing decisions of international students – specifically Generation Y or millennials, as they are commonly referred to – at Wittenborg.

Barzegar's research reveals a significant gap in both academic and practitioner understanding of the factors influencing Generation Y's fast fashion purchasing decisions.

Wittenborg’s Student Housing: Where Students Find Home and a Community

Wittenborg’s Student Housing: Where Students Find Home and a Community

Wittenborg’s Student Housing: Where Students Find Home and a Community

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborgs-student-housing-where-students-find-home-and-community.htm

Accommodation Provides Residents with Security and Comfort

One year ago, in January 2023, Wittenborg opened the doors to its new student housing facilities on De Ruyterstraat 5. For students facing the housing crisis in the Netherlands, it has been more than just a place to stay – it has become a warm and comforting, safe space.

With 75 cosy units, each having its own kitchen, bathroom, shower and toilet, De Ruyterstraat 5 is not just about extra rooms. It reflects the institution’s care for its students, and it is a way of saying “We’ve got your back”.

Wittenborg has a long-standing commitment to providing accommodation for students. In addition to the complex at De Ruyterstraat 5, the school has 70 other rooms in different locations around Apeldoorn, offering a total of 145 student apartments.

Beyond the numbers, De Ruyterstraat 5 is a place where students can feel secure and find peace of mind when they arrive in the Netherlands, knowing that they will not need to face any challenges related to housing.

Wittenborg Partners with 'Voedselbank' Apeldoorn to Drive Sustainable Change

Wittenborg Partners with 'Voedselbank' Apeldoorn to Drive Sustainable Change

Students and Staff Encouraged to Donate Empty Bottles and Cans 

"Providing a dedicated recycling bin for beverage cans encourages people to actively participate in sustainable practices, creating a shared commitment to reducing waste," says Lasantha De Silva, Head of Operations, about Wittenborg's recent collaboration with 'Voedselbank' (Food Bank) Apeldoorn. 

Students and staff may have noticed that Wittenborg has installed large, orange collection bins at its campus in Apeldoorn, its Spoorstraat study location and student housing locations in Ruyterstraat 5 and Ruyterstraat 3. The aim is to encourage students and staff to donate bottles and cans. The bins will be emptied once every two weeks, and the officers at the food bank will use the deposit money to buy food items distributed weekly to those less fortunate. 

De Silva explained how this collaboration came about, saying, "The Food Bank Apeldoorn took the initiative to install these bins in public places such as sports clubs. I first saw it at my cricket club. The moment they approached us, I was in favour of assisting." 

Wittenborg President and CEO Explores Education Opportunities in Abu Dhabi

Wittenborg President and CEO Explores Education Opportunities in Abu Dhabi

Wittenborg President and CEO's 'Fact-Finding' Mission in Abu Dhabi

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-president-and-ceo-explores-education-opportunities-abu-dhabi.htm

President and CEO of Wittenborg, Peter Birdsall and Maggie Feng, recently went on a 'fact-finding' trip to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates.

The journey in November allowed Birdsall and Feng to leverage their business connections, arranging significant meetings with previous Wittenborg personnel, as well as the Dutch Ambassador and his spouse in Abu Dhabi.

During an interview, Birdsall revealed that, in 2024, Wittenborg will explore the potential of running joint programmes in the UAE, such as MBAs (Master of Business Administration) with opportunities for individuals to spend some time in the UAE.

"The connections we've made provided valuable insights into the educational landscape in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Our goal is to maintain contact with them to ensure that we have connections there who can contribute to our long-term plans."

The trip included catching up with former Wittenborg colleague Muhammad Kaleem Zahir-Ul-Hassan as well as Vladimir Dzenopoljac, an Associate Professor in the UAE and an expert in gaining AACSB accreditation. Dzenopoljac also regularly collaborates with Wittenborg Head School of Business, Rauf Abdul on research projects.

New Perspectives in Education: Wittenborg Participates in AACSB EMEA Conference

Annual Event Gathers Business Schools from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

Annual Event Gathers Business Schools from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

From 26 to 28 November, Wittenborg participated in the AACSB EMEA conference, which this year was held in Rome, Italy. Gathering business schools from Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the annual event is aimed at promoting change, fostering innovation and shaping future leaders in the education sector.

The three-day programme featured several panels, workshops and networking activities, focusing on topics such as advancing efforts on impact issues, responsible research to save the world, how generative AI will disrupt business education and the drivers and challenges to redesigning curriculums. Additionally, it enabled participants to reconnect with colleagues, establish new partnerships, expand their network and learn about current industry trends and best practices.

Wittenborg was represented at the event by Head of School of Business Rauf Abdul and Head of Education Development and Quality Management Kriszta Kaspers-Rostás.

Wittenborg President Points Out Limitations in MBO Manifesto

Wittenborg President Points Out Limitations in MBO Manifesto

Peter Birdsall: Dutch educational distinctions do not exist in other countries

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-president-points-out-limitations-mbo-manifesto.htm

In a recent interview, Wittenborg President Peter Birdsall expressed reservations about the newly proposed MBO Manifesto, which aims to reshape the language used in discussions about education.

The manifesto, signed by various local and national entities, including the Municipality of Utrecht, Utrecht MBO schools, MBO student council SR030, the MBO Council and JOBmbo, calls for a reconsideration of terminology in light of Secondary Vocational Education (MBO) students who "experience negative views or discussions about their education".

JOBmbo, in a news article, states that while MBO is a valid educational choice, negative views and discussions persist, prompting the need for a linguistic shift. The MBO Manifesto urges politicians, municipalities, educators, employers and the media to be mindful of their language when discussing education and to promptly implement various changes.

The manifesto highlights the adverse impact of terms like 'higher' and 'intermediate,' contributing to a negative image of MBO. 

Wittenborg in Sri Lanka: New Partnerships and Exciting Developments

Wittenborg in Sri Lanka: New Partnerships and Exciting Developments

Lasantha De Silva in Close Contact with Multiple Sri Lankan Education-related Organisations

Between 6 and 23 November, Wittenborg Head of Operations Lasantha De Silva was in Sri Lanka, with the purpose of strengthening existing bonds and forming new partnerships with student agents and higher education institutions. In total, De Silva met with eight agencies in the cities of Nawala, Pita Kotte, Rajagiriya, Maharagama, Bambalapitiya, Battaramulla and Wellawatte, all located in the Colombo district.

Wittenborg CEO Shares Thoughts on Apeldoorn's New Economic Profile

Wittenborg CEO Shares Thoughts on Apeldoorn's New Economic Profile

Wittenborg CEO Shares her Thoughts on Apeldoorn's New Economic Profile

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-ceo-shares-thoughts-apeldoorns-new-economic-profile.htm

In a significant move for Apeldoorn's economic future, Apeldoorn Partners, in collaboration with the Strategic Network Apeldoorn, officially unveiled the city's new economic positioning on 12 December. The event, held at Hotel Restaurant de Echoput, brought together key stakeholders from Apeldoorn, including Maggie Feng, CEO of Wittenborg, and Kriszta Kaspers from Wittenborg's Education Development and Quality Management Department.

Capital of the Veluwe

Gerwin Hop, Chairman of the Strategic Network, kicked off the event, during which other members articulated their visions and interpretations of Apeldoorn's economic positioning.

Understanding Discrimination at Work: MBM Thesis Compares Dutch and Nigerian Companies

Understanding Discrimination at Work: MBM Thesis Compares Dutch and Nigerian Companies

Obumneme Ejiofor’s Study Focused on Banking and Retail Sectors

https://www.wittenborg.eu/understanding-discrimination-work-mbm-thesis-compares-dutch-and-nigerian-companies.htm

Having worked in Human Resources in both Nigeria and the Netherlands, Wittenborg graduate Obumneme Ejiofor observed how the Diversity & Inclusion department is an integral part of HR in most Dutch companies. This inspired him to conduct his thesis research on this topic, in order to obtain an MBM degree in Human Resource Management.  

“I got really intrigued and decided to learn more about the prevalence of discrimination in the Netherlands. On top of that, I thought that it would be interesting to see how it compares to a developing economy that is also constituted of workers from multiple backgrounds but does not have the Diversity & Inclusion department integrated into its companies. And, more importantly, I wanted to understand the effect that discrimination has on employee job satisfaction in both of these countries, and what factors can mitigate these effects,” he explains.

Obumneme’s study focused on Nigerian and Dutch companies from the banking and retail industries, and he chose these sectors because they are well-represented in both countries, providing a good basis for comparison.  

The research employs a quantitative method, based on a structured questionnaire that was answered by a total of 339 participants, out of which 155 are from Nigeria and 184 from the Netherlands. To reach these respondents, Obumneme contacted them on LinkedIn and also relied on the assistance of their professional associations.  

Call for Papers Submissions for Annual Globalisation Conference Open until 1 April

Call for Papers Submissions for Annual Globalisation Conference Open until 1 April

Event Organised by Wittenborg to Take Place 14 -16 August in Apeldoorn

https://www.wittenborg.eu/call-papers-submissions-annual-globalisation-conference-open-until-1-april.htm

Wittenborg invites researchers, industry professionals, students and policy makers to submit papers and posters to the first edition of its Annual Globalisation Conference, taking place from 14 to 16 August in Apeldoorn. 

Submissions are open until 1 April, while registration as a participant is possible until 1 August (both forms are available on this link, at the bottom of the page). 

It must be stressed that the works submitted need to be aligned with one of the conference’s 10 key themes: 1) The Digital Revolution, 2) Global Trade and Economics, 3) Cultural Exchange in a Globalised World, 4) Migration Patterns, 5) Environmental Challenges, 6) Global Governance and Policy, 7) The Future of Work, 8) Ethics and Globalisation, 9) Global Health and Pandemics and 10) Education in a Globalised Era. 

The event’s website features detailed information on the guidelines for submitting posters and papers. It is worth noting that the conference accepts both theoretical/academic papers and industry/applied papers, including educational papers focused on describing innovative teaching methods, modules and curricula, or other topics related to education within the field of hospitality and tourism. 

Wittenborg president Peter Birdsall emphasised that the Annual Globalisation Conference will provide great opportunities for sharing knowledge and broadening participants’ professional and academic horizons. 

Why Do Millennials Buy Fast Fashion Items? Wittenborg Student Investigates

Why Do Millennials Buy Fast Fashion Items? Wittenborg Student Investigates

The Influential Factors Guiding Millennials towards Fast Fashion Choices

https://www.wittenborg.eu/why-do-millennials-buy-fast-fashion-items-wittenborg-student-investigates.htm

On 1 December, Elham Barzegar, from Iran, presented her Graduation Assignment and Final Project (GA/FP) Oral Defence in Apeldoorn, shining a spotlight on environmentally unsustainable practices within the fast fashion industry.

The fast fashion industry, known for its swift production cycles and trend-centric approach, has faced scrutiny for its environmental impact. Barzegar, specialising in Digital Marketing and Communication within the Master of Business Management programme at Wittenborg, focused her final thesis on the purchasing decisions of international students – specifically Generation Y or millennials, as they are commonly referred to – at Wittenborg.

Barzegar's research reveals a significant gap in both academic and practitioner understanding of the factors influencing Generation Y's fast fashion purchasing decisions.

Wittenborg’s Student Housing: Where Students Find Home and a Community

Wittenborg’s Student Housing: Where Students Find Home and a Community

Wittenborg’s Student Housing: Where Students Find Home and a Community

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborgs-student-housing-where-students-find-home-and-community.htm

Accommodation Provides Residents with Security and Comfort

One year ago, in January 2023, Wittenborg opened the doors to its new student housing facilities on De Ruyterstraat 5. For students facing the housing crisis in the Netherlands, it has been more than just a place to stay – it has become a warm and comforting, safe space.

With 75 cosy units, each having its own kitchen, bathroom, shower and toilet, De Ruyterstraat 5 is not just about extra rooms. It reflects the institution’s care for its students, and it is a way of saying “We’ve got your back”.

Wittenborg has a long-standing commitment to providing accommodation for students. In addition to the complex at De Ruyterstraat 5, the school has 70 other rooms in different locations around Apeldoorn, offering a total of 145 student apartments.

Beyond the numbers, De Ruyterstraat 5 is a place where students can feel secure and find peace of mind when they arrive in the Netherlands, knowing that they will not need to face any challenges related to housing.

Wittenborg Partners with 'Voedselbank' Apeldoorn to Drive Sustainable Change

Wittenborg Partners with 'Voedselbank' Apeldoorn to Drive Sustainable Change

Students and Staff Encouraged to Donate Empty Bottles and Cans 

"Providing a dedicated recycling bin for beverage cans encourages people to actively participate in sustainable practices, creating a shared commitment to reducing waste," says Lasantha De Silva, Head of Operations, about Wittenborg's recent collaboration with 'Voedselbank' (Food Bank) Apeldoorn. 

Students and staff may have noticed that Wittenborg has installed large, orange collection bins at its campus in Apeldoorn, its Spoorstraat study location and student housing locations in Ruyterstraat 5 and Ruyterstraat 3. The aim is to encourage students and staff to donate bottles and cans. The bins will be emptied once every two weeks, and the officers at the food bank will use the deposit money to buy food items distributed weekly to those less fortunate. 

De Silva explained how this collaboration came about, saying, "The Food Bank Apeldoorn took the initiative to install these bins in public places such as sports clubs. I first saw it at my cricket club. The moment they approached us, I was in favour of assisting." 

Wittenborg President and CEO Explores Education Opportunities in Abu Dhabi

Wittenborg President and CEO Explores Education Opportunities in Abu Dhabi

Wittenborg President and CEO's 'Fact-Finding' Mission in Abu Dhabi

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-president-and-ceo-explores-education-opportunities-abu-dhabi.htm

President and CEO of Wittenborg, Peter Birdsall and Maggie Feng, recently went on a 'fact-finding' trip to Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates.

The journey in November allowed Birdsall and Feng to leverage their business connections, arranging significant meetings with previous Wittenborg personnel, as well as the Dutch Ambassador and his spouse in Abu Dhabi.

During an interview, Birdsall revealed that, in 2024, Wittenborg will explore the potential of running joint programmes in the UAE, such as MBAs (Master of Business Administration) with opportunities for individuals to spend some time in the UAE.

"The connections we've made provided valuable insights into the educational landscape in Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Our goal is to maintain contact with them to ensure that we have connections there who can contribute to our long-term plans."

The trip included catching up with former Wittenborg colleague Muhammad Kaleem Zahir-Ul-Hassan as well as Vladimir Dzenopoljac, an Associate Professor in the UAE and an expert in gaining AACSB accreditation. Dzenopoljac also regularly collaborates with Wittenborg Head School of Business, Rauf Abdul on research projects.

New Perspectives in Education: Wittenborg Participates in AACSB EMEA Conference

Annual Event Gathers Business Schools from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

Annual Event Gathers Business Schools from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

From 26 to 28 November, Wittenborg participated in the AACSB EMEA conference, which this year was held in Rome, Italy. Gathering business schools from Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the annual event is aimed at promoting change, fostering innovation and shaping future leaders in the education sector.

The three-day programme featured several panels, workshops and networking activities, focusing on topics such as advancing efforts on impact issues, responsible research to save the world, how generative AI will disrupt business education and the drivers and challenges to redesigning curriculums. Additionally, it enabled participants to reconnect with colleagues, establish new partnerships, expand their network and learn about current industry trends and best practices.

Wittenborg was represented at the event by Head of School of Business Rauf Abdul and Head of Education Development and Quality Management Kriszta Kaspers-Rostás.

Wittenborg President Points Out Limitations in MBO Manifesto

Wittenborg President Points Out Limitations in MBO Manifesto

Peter Birdsall: Dutch educational distinctions do not exist in other countries

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-president-points-out-limitations-mbo-manifesto.htm

In a recent interview, Wittenborg President Peter Birdsall expressed reservations about the newly proposed MBO Manifesto, which aims to reshape the language used in discussions about education.

The manifesto, signed by various local and national entities, including the Municipality of Utrecht, Utrecht MBO schools, MBO student council SR030, the MBO Council and JOBmbo, calls for a reconsideration of terminology in light of Secondary Vocational Education (MBO) students who "experience negative views or discussions about their education".

JOBmbo, in a news article, states that while MBO is a valid educational choice, negative views and discussions persist, prompting the need for a linguistic shift. The MBO Manifesto urges politicians, municipalities, educators, employers and the media to be mindful of their language when discussing education and to promptly implement various changes.

The manifesto highlights the adverse impact of terms like 'higher' and 'intermediate,' contributing to a negative image of MBO. 

Wittenborg in Sri Lanka: New Partnerships and Exciting Developments

Wittenborg in Sri Lanka: New Partnerships and Exciting Developments

Lasantha De Silva in Close Contact with Multiple Sri Lankan Education-related Organisations

Between 6 and 23 November, Wittenborg Head of Operations Lasantha De Silva was in Sri Lanka, with the purpose of strengthening existing bonds and forming new partnerships with student agents and higher education institutions. In total, De Silva met with eight agencies in the cities of Nawala, Pita Kotte, Rajagiriya, Maharagama, Bambalapitiya, Battaramulla and Wellawatte, all located in the Colombo district.

Wittenborg CEO Shares Thoughts on Apeldoorn's New Economic Profile

Wittenborg CEO Shares Thoughts on Apeldoorn's New Economic Profile

Wittenborg CEO Shares her Thoughts on Apeldoorn's New Economic Profile

https://www.wittenborg.eu/wittenborg-ceo-shares-thoughts-apeldoorns-new-economic-profile.htm

In a significant move for Apeldoorn's economic future, Apeldoorn Partners, in collaboration with the Strategic Network Apeldoorn, officially unveiled the city's new economic positioning on 12 December. The event, held at Hotel Restaurant de Echoput, brought together key stakeholders from Apeldoorn, including Maggie Feng, CEO of Wittenborg, and Kriszta Kaspers from Wittenborg's Education Development and Quality Management Department.

Capital of the Veluwe

Gerwin Hop, Chairman of the Strategic Network, kicked off the event, during which other members articulated their visions and interpretations of Apeldoorn's economic positioning.

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