Dear colleagues and students,
I would like to thank all the voters who, by placing their trust in me, made it possible for me to take part in this second round. I look forward to meeting many of you again, to hearing your concerns and considering with you how to address them. I remind you that the answers to the questions put in writing during the four debates in the first round can be found on my website. I also explain how my programme will be implemented and the principles that will govern the formation of my team.
I'm more convinced than ever that we can re-enchant the university and (re)discover the meaning of what we do there together. How can we achieve this? A simple accumulation of measures will not be enough. The university can’t simply change what it does; it needs to think about what it is. That’s why the programme I’m proposing commits the university to a real change of vision, that of a UCLouvain that is attentive to people and listens to them, rich in its diversity and inspired by its expertise, and grateful for the work of each and every one of us.
This horizon is not a utopia, provided we pursue it with courage and determination and, above all, methodically. First of all, we need to move away from zero risk, particularly in financial terms, because we have the necessary resources to relieve the teams who have been working under pressure for too long. To avoid any further overwork, I also believe it is essential to have a clear and shared vision of priorities, to be more resistant to external demands, and to be able to defend our interests and make our voice heard, as I had the opportunity to do on the issue of INAMI numbers, for example.
Over the coming weeks, I look forward to the discussions we will have together, with the aim of building with you the UCLouvain of tomorrow, one that reflects who we are and brings us together.
See you soon.
Françoise Smets