Wittenborg Strengthens Global Recruitment at Key Events in South Asia and Central Asia

23.03.2026

Michael Sheppard Visits Sri Lanka, India and Kyrgyzstan for Wittenborg’s Global Recruitment

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences has reinforced its international recruitment efforts through participation in two major education events across South Asia and Central Asia, represented by Recruitment & Sales Representative Michael Sheppard.

In February, Wittenborg took part in ICEF South Asia held in Colombo from 16 to 18 February, followed by a series of agency visits across India, including Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai. The event brought together approximately 500 participants, including 150 universities, 250 South Asian agencies and 100 service providers.

ICEF South Asia is widely recognised for connecting high-quality universities with both established and emerging agencies from across the region. It provides a platform to strengthen existing partnerships while opening doors to new collaborations and markets. According to Sheppard, the enthusiasm of participants was particularly striking.

“What stands out to me is the excitement and enthusiasm of the participants, who spend their careers supporting students to have incredible experiences, fulfil their potential and achieve their dreams,” he said. “I’m always honoured to be a part of an event like this.”

A key takeaway from the event was the growing appeal of Europe as a study destination. With its reputation for stability, affordability and dynamic student experiences, Europe is increasingly seen as an attractive alternative in a rapidly changing global landscape. The setting of Sri Lanka further enhanced the experience, offering a unique backdrop of beautiful beaches, rich culture and remarkable wildlife.

In early March, Sheppard continued Wittenborg’s outreach at the World of Education Expo in Bishkek. The event, organised by World of Education, took place from 5 to 7 March and included visits to two schools, each hosting around 500 students, as well as a student fair attended by approximately 500 participants.

The expo focused on helping students understand international study opportunities and their long-term benefits. Wittenborg’s presence aimed to attract talented students from Central Asia. Sheppard noted the high calibre of students he encountered. “I was very impressed with the quality of the students I met — strong grades, great English and an enthusiastic and entrepreneurial spirit that aligns exactly with Wittenborg’s globalised, individualised approach to education.”

While in Kyrgyzstan, Sheppard also appeared in a special YouTube interview, conducted in English (with Russian translations). In the video, he said: “I always tell people, I am here to sell happiness.” He went on to highlight that the Netherlands has one of the highest standards of living in the world, with good transport, excellent healthcare and a very high quality of life — points reinforced by the latest World Happiness Report, which ranks the Netherlands among the happiest countries globally.

He discussed Wittenborg in detail, emphasising its role as one of the most international private business schools in the Netherlands, with 100% English-taught programmes in business, management, entrepreneurship, hospitality and technology, including a new bachelor’s in AI and Cybersecurity. Sheppard explained that students can begin their studies six times a year, and that the university has two main campuses: the main campus in Apeldoorn and a branch in Amsterdam focused on entrepreneurship and technology.

The interview covered tuition fees, grants and scholarships, visa support, career prospects, applied sciences education and top reasons to choose Wittenborg. The video interview can be watched here.

The visit also highlighted the natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan. Bishkek, located between the Ala-Too mountain range and the vast Eurasian steppe, offered a striking setting that left a lasting impression.