A total of 104 students graduated from Reykjavík University at a formal ceremony held in Silfurberg, Harpa, on Saturday, October 25th. Fifteen students graduated from the School of Technology, and eighty-nine from the School of Social Sciences.

Ásthildur Gunnarsdóttir, Head of Communications, opened the ceremony, and the musical performance was by Katrín Halldóra Sigurðardóttir, who sang accompanied by pianist Hjörtur Jóhannsson.

Ragnhildur Helgadóttir, President of Reykjavík University, delivered the ceremonial address and spoke, among other things, about the changes taking place in higher education in connection with artificial intelligence, and how universities around the world are now facing a new reality.

Those of you graduating today — although to varying degrees — did not really encounter the artificial intelligence revolution until the latter part of your studies. In recent months, universities around the world, including ours, have been reflecting as best they can on its impact on education and university life in general. We are not so much concerned about any potential negative effects on the human mind from relying too heavily on AI, but rather about how we face this new reality and learn to work with it and within it.

In connection with the importance of taking part in the ongoing technological revolution, Ragnhildur said:

It is precisely because of this that we — many of us here today, lawyers, business professionals, and others in the social sciences and humanities — must have an opinion on, engage with, and take part in the technological revolution! After all, it is a revolution. And history shows that while we adapt to technological change, we also can — and have — shaped it. That is a responsibility we must take seriously, and the Nordic countries, including Iceland, have taken a clear stand in this regard. We must honor our promises to safeguard humanity and creativity, to use new technology for good, and to regulate its use where necessary — seriously and responsibly.

Ingveldur Gyða Gísladóttir, a graduating student with a master’s degree in Human Resource Management and Work Psychology, delivered an address on behalf of the graduates. She spoke about how her prior work experience had greatly contributed to her studies at Reykjavík University. Ingveldur holds a vocational education background and has professional experience in a wide range of fields. However, she had not previously worked in the business or finance sector, and therefore decided to pursue further education at Reykjavík University after spending more than 20 years in the labor market:

Long story short: I achieved all my goals — and more — here at Reykjavík University. Not only did I have access to outstanding professors and excellent facilities, but my studies also paved the way to two dream internships, which in turn opened the door to an exciting new job. I’ve already started working in a position where I get to use all the knowledge and insight I gained here.

The future is the future, no matter how long one has lived — and today, we are fortunate enough to be able to continually rediscover ourselves and reshape our future. Nothing is set in stone anymore.

Reykjavík University warmly congratulates the graduating students on their special day and wishes them every success in the future.