Fostering global partnerships in Rotterdam
Rotterdam Ahoy’s new convention centre proved the ideal setting for the European Association for International Education conference, welcoming 6,700 delegates to the port city
Home to prestigious institutions including Erasmus University and the University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam’s commitment to multi-culturalism, knowledge exchange and sustainability makes the city ideal for global education partnerships. And the flexible, modern facilities of its convention centre and exhibition halls at Rotterdam Ahoy ensures it has the venue to host large, complex events.
The Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre has been fully operational since 2022. With 35 breakout rooms, an impressive auditorium - RTM Stage - with 2,816 seats, beautiful foyers and exhibition spaces, Rotterdam Ahoy Convention Centre offers the ideal setting for both large conferences and more intimate business meetings. RTM Stage, the largest auditorium in the Netherlands, accommodates events for up to 7,842 people This new flexible and adaptable space with theatre-quality seats and loading bays is directly connected to Ahoy’s Exhibition & Event Halls, Convention Centre and Ahoy Arena.
Connecting currents
Founded in 1989, the European Association for International Education (EAIE) is the European centre for expertise, networking and resources in the internationalisation of higher education. The conference theme, ‘Connecting currents’, paid homage to Rotterdam's maritime history while recognising international education's role in sharing ideas, expertise, disciplines and cultures.
“Rotterdam is a place where the river meets the sea. In similar ways, international education actively connects ‘currents’ of thought, areas of expertise, disciplines and cultures. From virtual learning to climate action, multilingualism to geopolitics, the currents we navigate as international educators are fast-moving and unpredictable, exciting and important”
EAIE’s welcome message to delegates
The 33rd Annual EAIE Conference and Exhibition took place on 26–29 September 2023, with the mission to offer the more than 6,700 attendees the tools needed to promote international education in the Netherlands and beyond. With over 250 sessions and activities, the programme offered a variety of learning styles from interactive fishbowls and campfires to thought-provoking panels and posters.
EAIE insists on rigorous sustainability standards and only works with venues that conform to responsible consumption standards. During its annual conference, EAIE encouraged delegates to bring reusable water bottles and use public transport while reducing paper usage through digital platforms and managing electricity consumption. The team works with local catering companies and food suppliers to provide plant-based, locally-sourced ingredients for its food and beverage offer.
Rotterdam Partners - the city’s dedicated convention bureau - and the Municipality of Rotterdam supported the EAIE Conference, which aligns with the city's mission to foster international education excellence through collaboration and global partnerships.
Why Rotterdam
Home to more than 170 nationalities, Rotterdam’s location in Western Europe, boasting Europe’s largest smart port and a nearby airport, makes it easily accessible via air, road, sea and rail. The most connected city in Europe, world-class universities within half an hour of the city centre, experienced in hosting business events and offering a wide range of hotel rooms, Rotterdam is a compelling choice for event planners.
Rotterdam Ahoy has transitioned to a 100 per cent fossil-free operation and uses only sustainable energy, LED lighting, smart cooling installations, heat and cold storage, has a moss sedum roof and solar panels.
“Rotterdam focuses on innovation, sustainability, inclusivity and is transitioning to become the most resilient city in Europe,” says Mirjam van de Kamp, Director of Conventions at Rotterdam Ahoy. “With so many nationalities living together, we are also a very diverse and cosmopolitan city, with a unique vibe. Rotterdam is home to several thriving industries, which is reflected in the many congresses and business events our city hosts.”
Other large events at Rotterdam Ahoy, forthcoming and past, making use of the RTM Stage as a plenary hall include: World Hydrogen Summit, World Energy Congress, Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research and ISF World Seed Congress.
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