Inaugural Lectures by Jessika Weber Sabil, Carlos Santos and Jörn Fricke

We are happy to invite you to attend the Inaugural Lectures by  

• Jessika Weber, Professor of Digital Transformation in Cultural Tourism  
• Carlos Santos, Professor of Applied Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
• Jörn Fricke, Professor of Leisure in a Social Context
   

Programme

14.30 - 15.00 hrs: Arrival of the guests
15.00 – 15.10 hrs: Cortège – arrival
15.10 - 15.15 hrs: Opening introducing of the three professors
15.15 - 15.35 hrs: Inaugural speech Jörn Fricke
15.35 - 15.55 hrs: Inaugural speech Jessika Weber-Sabil
15.55 - 16.25 hrs: Inaugural speech Carlos Santos
16.25 - 16.30 hrs: Reflection on the three speeches
16.30 - 16.55 hrs: Installation ceremony
16.55 - 17.00 hrs: Closing official part
17.00 - 18.00 hrs: Drinks & bites 
 

Registration  

Want to join this special event? Please make sure to register as soon as possible because places are limited. You can register by filling in this form. Please register before 7 April 2025. 
 

Jörn Fricke on the topic of Leisure in a Social Context

‘The title of my professorship is ‘Leisure in a Social Context’, which – as the name suggests – offers an incredibly wide range of opportunities. Based on my personal interests and previous activities, I naturally want to focus on aspects where I feel I can contribute meaningful work through research and education. My interests lie in the field of leisure as a ‘bridge builder’ or ‘door opener’ for people and communities. Given the social, economic, and environmental challenges facing our societies, I hope to help our communities thrive and build resilience through leisure experiences,’ according to Jorn. 
Read the full article here

Carlos Santos on the topic of Data Science and AI

‘Artificial Intelligence is both a daunting and remarkable challenge. Its implications are so vast and profound that it is almost impossible to grasp its full scope. Faced with this reality, I saw two options: either stand on the sidelines or actively shape the future of AI. I’ve always believed in the latter. Surrounded by brilliant and inspiring people, the choice to get involved was an easy one. Through my professorship, I hope to positively influence the AI landscape and help build a more informed, empowered, and connected community,’ shares Carlos.  
Read the full article here 
 

Jessika Weber Sabil on the topic of Digital Transformation in Cultural Tourism

‘We are at a crossroads where technology is rapidly reshaping tourism and cultural heritage, yet we lack a clear understanding of its true impact on people. While there is an undeniable push for innovation, the bigger question is: Who gets to participate in this transformation? Who understands the technology, who benefits from it, and who gets left behind? As we integrate technology into how we experience and interpret culture, we must ask ourselves whether it fosters deeper understanding or merely reinforces biases and inequalities. My approach will focus on critically examining these questions, ensuring that technology serves as a bridge rather than a barrier in cultural engagement,’ says Jessika. 
Read the full article here

We very much hope to welcome you to this momentous occasion!

Location

Horizon Building - the Chapel Mgr. Hopmansstraat 2, 4817 JS Breda
Breda University of Applied Sciences  
  

Transit and parking info

We would like to invite you to travel by public transport or bicycle. Breda University of Applied Sciences is conveniently accessible by public transport, with a bus stop right in front of the campus and the train station just a 20-minute walk away. However, if you choose to drive, please note that the number of parking spaces available on our green campus is limited.