The E³UDRES² alliance focuses on strengthening regional development and ecosystems through collaboration between educational institutions, businesses and communities. On 24 and 25 March 2026, a group of 'critical friends' from E³UDRES² interviewed various people from Saxion and stakeholders from Saxion. Based on the self-evaluation report, written under the leadership of Ruud Koopman from the Regional Development research group, various aspects of regional cooperation were discussed. Saxion was represented in this evaluation by staff members, students, the municipality, SMEs, but also the local company Thales.
During the visit to Saxion in Deventer, the strong integration of the institution in the three regions, Enschede, Deventer and Apeldoorn, was emphasized. With approximately 25,000 students, Saxion plays an important role in attracting and retaining talent, supporting SMEs and multinationals, and stimulating research and innovation. Inspiring initiatives were highlighted, such as the Smart Solutions Semester, where students from different disciplines work together on real challenges from businesses.
Some lessons from the review:
The importance of continuous innovation within the rapidly changing landscape of higher education.
Developing new learning patterns that combine work and study for diverse groups of students and enable a smooth transition from study to work.
Strengthening Saxion's role in formulating regional strategies and addressing regional challenges.
Showing impact and success stories to regional partners, such as small businesses and municipalities.
Harnessing the full potential of applied sciences to transform knowledge and research into innovation and skills.
The E³UDRES² alliance provides a platform to further develop these capabilities and connect them with regional, national and European partners.
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➞ Saxion UAS
Article created by: Saxion UAS
