What does it take for a university to keep asking the right questions, generation after generation?
On Monday 9 November 2026, Erasmus University Rotterdam celebrates its 113th Dies Natalis, its annual academic ceremony. This year's celebration explores how scientific research can contribute to building resilient societies in a rapidly changing world.
The Erasmus Alumni Club has been invited to attend this special occasion. We invite our members to join us, with a dedicated EAC welcome desk and reserved seating during the ceremony.
Language: The ceremony will be bilingual (Dutch/English). Erasmus University Rotterdam will provide a translation service from Dutch to English and from English to Dutch, accessible through a programme on your own phone.
About this year's Dies Natalis
From climate change and inequality of opportunity to technological developments and increasing polarisation, today's challenges call for different disciplines and perspectives to come together.
Hosted by journalist, writer and documentary filmmaker Dore van Duivenbode, this year's Dies Natalis brings together researchers, students and the wider university community to reflect on the role of science in addressing these challenges.
What to expect
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The traditional academic cortège, followed by the Dies speech from Rector Magnificus Prof. Jantine Schuit.
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Honorary doctorates awarded to Prof. David Abbink and Prof. Jeffrey Braithwaite for their pioneering research.
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An academic contribution by Prof. Anne Gielen on inequality of opportunity.
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Music and spoken word by singer Beatriz Lima and spoken-word artist Tyler Koudijzer.
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Academic awards recognising outstanding researchers and students, followed by a reception.
Programme
14:15–14:40 | Arrival and check-in at the dedicated EAC welcome desk
14:45–16:30 | Academic ceremony
16:30–17:30 | Reception at Theil Hall
Location: Erasmus University Rotterdam, Campus Woudestein, Erasmus Building.
Please check in at our EAC welcome desk between 14:15 and 14:40. Reserved seating will be available for EAC members during the ceremony. We kindly ask you to arrive by 14:40 at the latest, so you can experience the cortège from inside the auditorium.
Tickets and registration
Attendance is free of charge. Registration through the Erasmus Alumni Club will open soon.
Register through EAC by 4 November to join us for this special occasion. We will have a dedicated EAC welcome desk and reserved seating for our members during the ceremony.
After 4 November, registration will only be possible directly through Erasmus University Rotterdam, subject to availability.