In 2018, European Studies alum Joost van den Akker became one of the regional ministers of Limburg, “the most international province of the Netherlands”. In his eyes, the university is a “European musketeer” whose pursuit of internationalisation and Europe is a winning model. “It’s an example to all of Limburg.”
Van den Akker considers his workplace perhaps the most beautiful provincial government building in the country.
Perched on the banks of the river, it has an almost symbolic location: “The Meuse is a connecting element in the province.” White marble floors (“they’re not everywhere, just so you know”) lead to his office, down a long hallway lined with official portraits of governors of Limburg. “You don’t get used to it,” he says. “I feel privileged to work here on behalf of the people. I want to be focused and fully committed.”
Read the entire interview here.