The new Rector Magnificus of Maastricht University, Pamela Habibovic, sees the psychological health of students as a priority, because ‘the difficult period is not over yet’.
Habibovic was handed over the title of Rector Magnificus on Thursday from Rianne Letschert, her predecessor. This makes her the second female Rector Magnificus in Maastricht. Before that, she was active as a professor of inorganic biomaterials at the university.
Also read: New Rector Magnificus for Maastricht University
Glass is half full
Topics such as the housing shortage and the psychological health of students who have suffered during the corona pandemic held back, have her full attention. “We are coming out of a difficult period and it is still not over. But we have to look at it positively. We have learned a lot. We can still use the flexibility that was requested then, and we will take that with us. the innovation of our education. For example, we are looking at forms of online teaching that can solve difficulties in some areas,” says Habibovic.
Ratio between men and women
Habibovic sees her appointment as proof that there is still much to be gained in the field of emancipation. “It shows that it is not yet customary for many women to sit in a college. In Maastricht it is better than at other universities.” She partly thanks her predecessor Rianne Letschert for this: “She has created an environment where rejuvenation and modernization are of paramount importance.”