UG receives partner recognition from Groningen Provincial Physical Activity Agreement

On Thursday 8 October, the University of Groningen received partner recognition from the Groningen Provincial Physical Activity Agreement (GPB). Rector Magnificus Jacquelien Scherpen accepted the recognition from Simone Smuling of Huis voor de Sport Groningen at the Academy Building. The UG hosted the partner meeting that morning.

The GPB brings together more than fifty partners committed to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for all residents of the province of Groningen, from young to old. The UG contributes through its scientific expertise and role in society.

'The UG is a partner because our knowledge and role in society enable us to contribute to a healthier and more vibrant Groningen,” said Scherpen. “We do this in various ways: through research into sport, physical activity and motivation, by connecting scientific knowledge with practice, and by involving our elite student athletes in inspiring others.'

Connecting knowledge with practice

According to Scherpen, the agreement provides a valuable network for putting knowledge into practice in society. For her, the strength of the partnership lies in bringing together knowledge, practice and inspiration.

'No organization can tackle the societal challenges surrounding physical activity and health on its own. A university can conduct extensive research, but it needs partners to put that knowledge into practice. By connecting our different perspectives, we can achieve more together than we could individually.'

Following the presentation of the partner recognition in the Senate Room, the programme continued with, among other activities, a discussion with Nico van Yperen, Professor of Sport and Performance Psychology at the UG. He spoke about societal challenges in the province of Groningen and the urgency of addressing them.

Giving everyone the opportunity to participate

Scherpen emphasizes that the partnership is ultimately about the people of Groningen: children discovering the joy of physical activity, adults finding ways to stay active, and the volunteers and professionals who make this possible.

'And about an environment in which everyone has the opportunity to participate. If we can contribute together, drawing on our different expertise, experience and networks, we can make a real impact. Because to get Groningen moving, we need to keep moving ourselves.'