The research report identifies six areas that further research could focus on, as well as the sources that can be consulted. In addition, the NIOD provides recommendations on how the UvA can involve its community in the follow-up study. This forms the basis for the main study, which is expected to take approximately two years.

Six focus areas for follow-up research

The report outlines six possible lines of historical research. With this focus, the UvA can systematically and thoroughly map its colonial ties and compare them with other Dutch universities.

1. Financial ties
   It is difficult to determine whether the funds allocated to the Athenaeum Illustre and later the UvA by the Amsterdam municipal authorities had a colonial origin. Therefore, the report recommends examining other financial flows - for example, the establishment of Special Chairs and the ties with companies active in the colonies.
2. Institutional connections – curriculum, chairs and faculties
   From 1877 onwards, the UvA had a clear ambition to include the colonies in its education. As a result, several faculties became involved in colonial scholarship. Follow-up research can reveal the extent of this involvement and what it meant for the UvA’s position compared to other Dutch universities.
3. Special collections
   The UvA owns several collections containing colonial heritage, including those held by the Allard Pierson Museum, Museum Vrolik and the Zoological Museum. The report recommends investigating the colonial significance of these collections for education and how this heritage contributed to academic knowledge production.
4. Campus buildings
   Many UvA buildings were initially associated with colonial activities. However, as far as is currently known, none of the former owners with colonial ties bequeathed their buildings to the university. It was usually the municipality that allocated buildings to the university. The UvA could further investigate how the use or decoration of buildings related to the colonies.
5. The community
   The report advises researching how links with colonialism and slavery were reflected within the academic community. This includes not only examining the number of students and staff from the colonies, but also how the academic community engaged with slavery and colonialism and their legacies - for example, in doctoral theses and student magazines.
6. Self-image
   The report suggests investigating how the Athenaeum and the UvA leveraged their colonial connections to enhance their public profile and differentiate themselves from competitors. It also stresses the importance of acknowledging critical and anti-colonial responses within the UvA community and in the colonies.

Follow-up research

The second part of the research, the main study, will consist of two elements:

• A substantive research programme
• A series of meetings to share insights with the UvA community and gather feedback

A core group, yet to be appointed, will shape the next phase of the study. The members of this group will be recruited via an open UvA call. The main study is expected to take approximately two years.

Presentation of Preliminary Study

The report containing the results of the preliminary study was officially presented to the Executive Board on 7 November. Students and staff were able to attend this presentation.

Download the research report

Download the report here (pdf)