In order to tackle unemployment in Europe, we need increased mobility, enhanced flexibility and optimal education. This was the conclusion of Yves Mersch, Member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank, at this year’s “Dies academicus”.

Yves Mersch, who is an Honorary Professor of the University of Luxembourg, was the keynote speaker at the traditional celebration opening of the new academic year on Friday, 26 September 2014 at Campus Kirchberg.

In his speech (PDF), he underlined the importance of labour mobility as “a core element of a successful currency union” that will lead “to a better match between workers’ skills and employers’ demands”. However, many intra-EU migrant workers are employed below their skills level, Mersch said.

In his closing words, the Secretary of State for Higher Education and Research, Mr Marc Hansen, expressed his thanks to all those University staff members who helped to solve problems related to the University’s move to Esch-Belval in the last months.

Moreover, he announced the organisation of a research symposium, “Assises de la recherche”, on Saturday, 13 December 2014 to discuss further cooperation with all research institutions in Luxembourg.

Regarding the young scientists receiving their PhD diploma certificates that evening, Hansen said he was impressed by the quality of the theses. “At this young age, the University of Luxembourg already has a tradition of quality and excellence”, he concluded.

The University’s 10th Dies academicus ended with the Graduation Ceremony of 70 Doctoral Students and a reception for all guests.

Photo: © Université du Luxembourg, Michel Brumat