LUC anniversary: 15 inspiring examples of local impact
In 2025, Leiden University College (LUC) celebrates its 15th anniversary with the theme 'Global challenges, local impact'. To kick off this anniversary year, we have shared fifteen stories over the past few weeks showcasing how LUC students, researchers, and alumni contribute to societal challenges in the Netherlands.
This series of stories on social media illustrated the impact LUC has on The Hague and beyond. From sustainability and public health to social inclusion and entrepreneurship, each example demonstrated how interdisciplinary collaboration leads to tangible results.
Yet, this selection represents only a fraction of the many ways in which LUC contributes to society.
The power of interdisciplinary education and collaboration
LUC was founded with the mission to provide excellent education in an international and interdisciplinary setting. This mission is clearly reflected in the projects we have highlighted. Students and researchers collaborate with governments, businesses, and civil society organisations to tackle complex global issues. Whether addressing climate adaptation, poverty reduction, food security, or urban development, LUC combines academic knowledge with practice-oriented research to make an impact.
Fifteen stories, one shared mission
Each of the fifteen featured examples highlighted a unique aspect of LUC’s engagement with society:
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Poverty and vulnerability in The Hague – The course Struggle in the City helps students analyse and address social issues such as homelessness and addiction.
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Alumni strengthening healthcare – LUC alumni contribute to infectious disease control and the application of artificial intelligence in the medical sector.
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Water management along the North Sea coast – Research in collaboration with Dunea on sustainable water and dune management strategies.
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Joining forces against food waste – The LUC Community Kitchen repurposes surplus food from The Hague Market into meals.
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Food security in The Hague – Capstone projects on urban gardening and ecological sustainability.
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Mapping the Asian diaspora – Students document the diversity of The Hague through a multilingual dictionary.
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Alumni driving the startup sector – LUC alumni establish businesses focused on impact-driven investments and the circular economy.
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Social cohesion and food waste – A project exploring how different communities can collaborate on sustainability.
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Youth and social engagement – An LUC alumna leads Haagse Helpers to involve young adults in volunteer work.
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Peace and security in The Hague – Fireside Peace Chats bring together policymakers and peace advocates.
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Narratives and geopolitics – An event examining Europe’s role in the global battle of narratives.
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Climate adaptation and policy advice – An LUC alumna works at the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) on strategies for a more sustainable Netherlands.
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Education and nature conservation – A collaboration with IVN to raise youth awareness of sustainability through nature education.
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Creativity and well-being – Alumni and students integrate art and nature to strengthen social connections.
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ClimateCasino and education – An innovative teaching project engaging vocational students in climate issues.
A lasting impact
Although these fifteen stories represent only a glimpse of LUC’s societal engagement, they underscore what makes LUC unique: an academic community that not only studies global challenges but actively contributes to solutions—both worldwide and here in the Netherlands. The diversity of these projects reflects the breadth of LUC’s interdisciplinary approach and the strength of its international community.
As we continue celebrating our anniversary year, LUC remains committed to inspiring the next generation of students and researchers to make an impact, now and in the future. Thank you for following this series and for your interest in LUC’s contribution to a better society!
Want to learn more about LUC’s 15th anniversary? Visit universiteitleiden.nl/luc15.
Leiden University College
Leiden University College (LUC) is the international Honours College of Leiden University. Located in the heart of The Hague, LUC offers small-scale teaching and a vibrant academic and residential community focused on global challenges.