In early 2026, VU Amsterdam adopted its strategy for 2026–2030. Digitalization plays a key role in this plan.
VU Sets Course: Digitalization Strategy 2030
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam has adopted its Strategy 2026–2030. Digitalization plays a central role in this plan: it is the driving force behind innovation in education, research, healthcare, and operations. Not as an end in itself, but as a means to strengthen our academic mission, values, and social responsibility.
Why a digitalization strategy?
The digital world is evolving at an ever‑increasing pace. Innovations in generative AI and international developments make it essential for us as a university to make deliberate choices. At the same time, there is a growing desire in the Netherlands and across Europe to regain control over our information systems. This calls for a clear and purposeful course of action.
A strategic compass for 2026–2030
The VU’s digitalization strategy outlines four pillars that will guide our digital initiatives in the coming years, grounded in the VU’s mission and core values. These pillars connect the strategic goals of the institutional plan with the educational agenda and the research strategy. They also offer concrete solutions for education, research, impact, and support domains.
They show how we can use digitalization to create a secure and reliable digital environment—one that enhances the quality of education and research, enables us to reclaim autonomy over data and technology, and supports innovation.
What does this mean for the VU?
The strategy helps us make informed choices within a complex landscape of technological developments, legal frameworks, and strategic ambitions. It clarifies where the VU intends to invest in the coming years and how we will deploy digital resources in ways that align with our mission, core values, and social mandate.
Moving forward together
We are not digitizing alone. This strategy is an invitation to everyone at the VU to help build a future‑proof digital university. In the coming period, we will work on implementation and continue to actively inform and involve the organization throughout this process.