Graduation Ceremony of Reykjavik University at Harpa

The graduation ceremony of Reykjavik University took place at Silfurberg in Harpa Concert Hall on October 31. A total of 98 students graduated, including 91 students receiving master's degrees, four receiving doctoral degrees, two receiving BSc degrees and one receiving a diploma.

In her address, Ragnhildur Helgadóttir, president of RU, discussed how the balance between different elements of education is not something that can be taken for granted. These elements include inspiring curiosity, developing methods for reaching scientific conclusions, critical thinking, collaboration skills, subject-specific knowledge and preparation for professional life. She noted that this balance is not necessarily the same at every level of education. She also emphasised that this balance is constantly being reassessed in response to changes in society.

“One of the things the development of artificial intelligence has brought about is that more people have formed and developed opinions on precisely this balance. We are seeing much less impatience towards those aspects of educational programmes that focus on critical thinking and collaboration skills than we did just two years ago. The reason is that all of us, both at work and in our everyday lives, are trying to understand where this development is heading. Similarly, many employers are now less concerned with the knowledge people already have in their heads and more interested in whether they know how to find knowledge and acquire it,” said Ragnhildur.

Hjördís Líney Aðalsteinsdóttir, who graduated with an MSc in Human Resource Management and Work Psychology, delivered a speech on behalf of the graduating students. She spoke about the importance of pursuing one's dreams and how the path to higher education is not the same for everyone.

“This university has given me opportunities that others were not willing to give me, enabling me to work towards creating a successful future for my daughter and me. Without the opportunity provided by the university, I would not be standing here today. My studies have taught me to keep moving forward, continue learning and grow alongside knowledge. Education can open doors that may not necessarily be open to you in the social environment into which you are born,” said Hjördís Líney.

The musical performances were provided by Sigríður Thorlacius, Guðmundur Óskar and Ásthildur Gunnarsdóttir, Director of Communications, served as master of ceremonies.

The President's full address can be found here.