Students from over 20 countries graduate in Wittenborg Winter Graduation 2026

18.02.2026

Celebrating achievement across bachelor’s, master’s and specialised programmes

On 6 February, Wittenborg hosted one of its most anticipated events of the year: its Winter Graduation 2026, celebrating the achievements of graduates from more than 20 countries.

Students from bachelor’s, master’s, and specialised programmes completed courses in areas such as Business Administration, Digital Marketing & Communication, Entrepreneurship, Logistics & Trade, International Management, Data Analytics, Cyber Security, Hospitality, Finance, Health and Social Care, and Education.

The ceremony, held at Theater Orpheus in Apeldoorn, recognised not only academic excellence but also the resilience, adaptability, and global perspective these students have developed during their studies.

Vajihe Shojaei, Assistant Professor of Applied Sciences, addressed the bachelor’s graduates with words that resonated throughout the hall:

"Your future won’t always be easy but you are not starting from zero. You’re starting from experience. Failure often means you were brave enough to try. You already know how to survive the messy middle. Now go build something meaningful, step by step, with courage and kindness toward yourself and others."

For the Master of Business Administration graduates, Dadi Chen, Deputy Head of the School of Business, highlighted the skills and mindset that will help them navigate the world beyond Wittenborg:

"You didn’t just learn about being a ‘global citizen’ in a textbook; you lived it. You are not just graduates; you are ‘AI-powered explorers.’ Your authenticity, cross-cultural empathy, and human-centred leadership are your greatest competitive advantages in this ever-changing world."

Students also reflected on the journey themselves. Mehak Panwar, graduating in Marketing Communication & Information, spoke candidly about the challenges and personal growth experienced throughout the programme:

"The best thing we can do for ourselves is not to compare, not our progress, not our struggles, not our goals. Cherish your own journey and truly enjoy your life."

She added that despite late nights, group work, and thesis challenges, the determination and consistency of the graduates brought them to this milestone, a sentiment echoed by her classmates.

Harshal Sonawane, an MBA in Data Analytics graduate, shared a similar sense of fulfilment. He chose the programme to combine business strategy with data-driven decision-making in today’s digital world. He described graduating as both rewarding and deeply satisfying, noting that the journey had been challenging but transformative for his professional and personal growth.

For Sonawane, the most memorable moments were working on his thesis and collaborating with people from different cultural backgrounds, experiences that strengthened both his analytical skills and his global outlook. Looking ahead, he aims to build a career in data analytics and artificial intelligence, helping organisations make smarter, data-driven decisions.

Other speakers of the day included Peter Birdsall, who welcomed the guests; Prof. Dr Ed Vosselman, who gave the opening address; Tolulope Oluwatosin-Lawal, the Master’s representative; Robert Muster, lecturer for the MSc cohort; and Colin MacKenzie, Associate Professor of Applied Sciences, who delivered the closing speech.

In his address, MacKenzie drew on stories from the Scottish Enlightenment, citing philosophers, economists, and historical figures such as David Hume, Adam Smith, Mary Slessor, and Robert Burns to illustrate resilience, curiosity, and the power of ethical action. Highlighting Burns’ famous reflection that “the best laid schemes of mice and men gang aft agley,” he reminded graduates that plans may not always unfold as expected, but persistence and creative problem-solving can overcome obstacles.

He closed with a personal motto for life: the three P’s: persuasion, persistence, and passion. He encouraged graduates to apply these principles as they navigate their careers, pursue their goals, and make a positive impact in the world. “Today is your day,” he said. “Take each day one step at a time, keep in touch with Wittenborg, and shine bright.”