University of Twente Launches 65th Anniversary Celebrations with Alumni Days Showcasing Innovation and Impact

University of Twente Launches 65th Anniversary Celebrations with Alumni Days Showcasing Innovation and Impact

(IN BRIEF) The University of Twente will open its 65th anniversary year with the Lustrum Alumni Days on 8 and 9 May 2026, bringing together thousands of alumni for a programme of lectures, discussions, and networking activities. The event highlights the university’s focus on translating research into real-world impact, with alumni presenting projects ranging from photonic chip manufacturing to semiconductor innovation and advanced robotics. Key sessions will explore the journey from academic research to industrial application, as well as emerging technologies such as AI and quantum communication. The event also coincides with the Batavierenrace, creating a vibrant campus atmosphere that combines academic engagement with community celebration. Overall, the initiative underscores the university’s role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and technological progress over the past 65 years.

(PRESS RELEASE) ENSCHEDE, 6-May-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — University of Twente is set to launch its 65th anniversary celebrations with the Lustrum Alumni Days, taking place on 8 and 9 May 2026 at its campus in Enschede. The two-day event will welcome around 60,000 alumni, including former students and staff, for a programme combining lectures, guided tours, and networking opportunities that highlight the university’s long-standing focus on innovation and real-world impact.

The event will showcase how research conducted at the university has translated into practical applications across industries. Alumni will not only participate as attendees but also contribute as speakers, sharing their professional journeys and achievements. Among them is Twan Korthorst, an Electrical Engineering graduate, who is currently involved with New Origin in developing what is expected to become the first photonic chip manufacturing facility in the Twente region. His work reflects the transition from academic research to industrial-scale production.

Another example is Maryam Dodangeh, who began her work on Bluetooth chip development during her doctoral studies at the university and now works as a senior engineer at Renesas Electronics. She credits her academic experience at Twente for providing the foundation and direction for her career in chip design.

On 8 May, both alumni will take part in a session exploring how scientific research evolves into commercial applications. The session will be moderated by Leontien Kalverda, Programme Manager for ChipTech Talent at the university, and will also address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the semiconductor sector.

The programme also highlights broader technological developments and their societal impact. Steven van Roon, manager of the university’s Robotics Centre and founder of Mission I.A.M., will present research on a bionic leg project aimed at enabling individuals with amputations to run an ultramarathon by 2030. The initiative brings together expertise from students, researchers, and athletes to advance innovation in assistive technology.

In addition to these sessions, the Alumni Days will feature lectures on topics such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, quantum communication, sustainability, and the role of science in policymaking. Entrepreneurs Giels Brouwer and Maarten Kollen will also contribute to discussions on “High-Tech Noaberschap,” a concept reflecting the region’s collaborative approach to technological development, combining craftsmanship, pragmatism, and innovation.

The Alumni Days coincide with the 54th edition of the Batavierenrace, which will conclude on the university campus. Participants will have the opportunity to combine the academic programme with the event’s closing celebrations, reinforcing the community atmosphere of the anniversary weekend.

The Lustrum Alumni Days mark the official start of a year-long series of events celebrating the University of Twente’s 65-year legacy in education, research, and technological advancement.

What: Lustrum Alumni Days 2026 – opening of the University of Twente’s anniversary year
When: Friday 8 May (from 16:00) and Saturday 9 May 2026 (from 10:30)
Where: UT campus, Enschede
Access: open to all UT alumni
Tickets: available here
More information: available here

Media Contacts:

M. Coello Casian (Magali)
Alumni Relations Manager
+31534892343
m.coellocasian@utwente.nl

J.C. Vreeman (Jochem)
Press relations (available Mon-Fri)
+31 6 5432 6671
j.c.vreeman@utwente.nl

SOURCE: University of Twente