EBS Kicks Off the New Academic Year with Ambition

On Friday, August 30, 2024, all members of the EBS academic community gathered in the school auditorium for the official opening ceremony of the academic year. Following tradition, the event began with the Estonian national anthem, after which EBS Chancellor, the university’s Rector, the Headmistress of the Gymnasium, and the heads of postgraduate and continuing education programs addressed the audience. Despite various challenges, the consensus was clear: EBS is ready to maintain and strengthen its position as a leading business school both in Estonia and internationally. The ceremony also included recognition of the outstanding faculty members and contributors to the school’s development efforts from the previous academic year.

Press Release
August 30, 2024, Tallinn

In his opening speech, EBS Rector Meelis Kitsing encapsulated the past, present, and future endeavors of the EBS community under the school’s mission statement, "Community for Growth and Responsibility." Kitsing stated, "By emphasizing community, we are not suppressing individualism or personal contributions. The essence of community is that by working together, we can achieve significantly more. I am pleased to note that last year's strategic goals and results were achieved thanks to the cooperation of our academic community. Systematic work and investments to expand the university's activities beyond traditional education have begun to bear fruit. Revenues from research and development activities grew by 28% in the 2023/24 academic year, and similar growth is projected for the 2024/25 academic year."

Focus on the Combination of IT and Entrepreneurship, and Internationalization

For the upcoming academic year, EBS has set new priorities that support the school’s long-term vision and development, focusing on the combination of IT and entrepreneurship as the core of modern education, as well as on international relations and collaboration. "EBS's strength lies in its ability to integrate technology and entrepreneurship. Our degree programs are evolving to provide students with the practical skills and knowledge essential for success in the global digital economy. We are also committed to fostering internationalization through collaborative projects with companies, leading universities, and business schools worldwide. Notable achievements include our partnerships with prestigious universities such as Lund University (Sweden), KU Leuven (Belgium), the Prague University of Economics and Business (Czech Republic), Bocconi University (Italy), and the University of Twente (Netherlands). These collaborations expand EBS’s research and development opportunities and reinforce our position within global academic and business circles," emphasized Kitsing.

EBS High School – High Reputation and Excellent Academic Results

EBS High School Headmistress Kersti Uudla acknowledged that the goals set for the previous school year were challenging, but the entire team worked hard to achieve excellent results. "Despite the challenges, we have managed to maintain a calm, responsible, and academically capable learning environment. Looking at today’s results, we can be satisfied – EBS High School is known for its professional and motivated staff and is dedicated to continuous development. The school has a high reputation, and our students achieve excellent academic results. We are proud of our achievements, especially in terms of academic outcomes. However, we will not rest on our laurels – we must continue to focus on innovation and student-centered approaches to ensure the best possible educational experience for our students. Our goal is to be a school where every student can realize their potential and prepare for a successful future."

EBS on a Steady Course of Growth

In an economic overview, EBS Chancellor Mart Habakuk confirmed that the school is on a strong growth trajectory: "We have achieved significant financial results, with revenues increasing by 9.5% compared to the previous year. Particularly noteworthy is the 24% revenue growth in the High School and a 28% increase in doctoral programs and research projects. These results confirm the school’s continued strength and ability to succeed in the economic environment – we are capable and stable."

Thanks to Faculty and Best Wishes to Students

Inspiring words for the upcoming academic year were also delivered by Head of Student Experience & Admission, Liina Reimann: "The 2024/2025 admissions once again confirmed that EBS is the top choice for entrepreneurship and business education. Many of our new students have come to us through recommendations from alumni, family members, or acquaintances. Our strengths are recognized in our competent faculty, practical learning experience, and international, student-centered learning environment. Seeing the enthusiasm with which our first-year students began Intro Week, I am confident that this curiosity, open-mindedness, and courage to say 'yes' to new experiences will endure."

Recognition of Outstanding Faculty at the Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony also included the recognition of faculty members who excelled in the previous academic year: