Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek

Stepping onto the grounds of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek, one might hear whispers of “Scientia vincere tenebras”. This motto, meaning “Conquering darkness through science,” encapsulates the very spirit of this institution. The Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek isn’t just a collection of buildings. It’s a testament to the enduring power of free inquiry and academic freedom. Founded in 1970, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek emerged from the linguistic division of the Free University of Brussels. This split, a pivotal moment in Belgian history, resulted in two separate institutions: the Dutch-speaking Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and the French-speaking Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB). The VUB, with its Etterbeek campus as its main hub for non-medical studies, stands as a beacon of Dutch-language higher education in the heart of Brussels. The Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek is more than just its official name. It’s also known as Campus Oefenplein and, more recently, as the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus. Although its name suggests it’s located in Etterbeek, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek actually sits within the borders of Elsene, a mere five-minute walk from the Etterbeek train station. This proximity to public transport makes it a vibrant hub for students from all corners of Brussels and beyond. The campus itself is a fascinating mix of architectural styles. While many of the buildings date back to the 1970s, some, like the Rectoraat building designed by Renaat Braem, are considered architectural landmarks. Within these walls, over 8,000 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate students pursue knowledge across a diverse range of fields. From law and criminology to engineering and the arts, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek fosters a dynamic learning environment where free inquiry and critical thinking are paramount. The university’s democratic structure, where students, faculty, and staff all participate in decision-making, reinforces this spirit of intellectual freedom. As you leave the Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek, remember the words of Henri Poincaré, a sentiment deeply cherished by the VUB. “Thinking must never submit itself…except to the facts themselves, because for it to submit to anything else would be the end of its existence.” This dedication to truth and the pursuit of knowledge, embodied in the motto “Scientia vincere tenebras”, is the true legacy of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel – Campus Etterbeek.