Professor Doctor Pieter Van Essen

Dr. Pieter van Essen is a seasoned educator and international business expert with a distinguished academic background. Holding an MBA from NTI/Business School Nederland and a Master’s in Special Educational Needs from the University of Greenwich, Dr. van Essen has also pursued PhD studies at the University of Gdansk, Poland. With a robust educational foundation, he has established himself as a respected guest lecturer, visiting professor, and senior lecturer at renowned institutions globally, including Gengdan Institute of Beijing University, University of Gdansk, and Windesheim University.

Centre for International Relations was privileged to host Professor Dr. Pieter Van Essen, a distinguished academic and international business professional from PUM Netherlands, at GIFT University from 10th November to 17th November 2024. Dr. Van Essen, with his expertise in leadership development, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Systemic Leadership, has been a leading figure in global education and professional development.

During his visit, Dr. Van Essen facilitated interactive sessions designed to enhance the soft skills and leadership capabilities of our faculty members and management staff. These sessions focused on improving communication, teamwork, decision-making, and strategic leadership within the institution.

Additionally, Dr. Van Essen conducted specialized workshops for our students, aimed at developing essential skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication. His guidance empowered students to sharpen their leadership potential, preparing them for success in their academic journeys and future careers.

As part of his efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry, Dr. Van Essen also visited the Gujranwala Business Centre and several other industries. This initiative was aimed at nurturing stronger connections between the academic world and the business sector, ensuring that students and faculty are better equipped to meet the evolving demands of the industry.

GIFT University and Dr. Van Essen have initiated several projects focused on sustainability, technology, and healthcare. These projects are designed to address global challenges by combining academic research, technological innovation, and sustainable practices in the healthcare sector. This collaboration provides students from the different fields such as Business, Computer Science, and Healthcare with the opportunity to work together in developing sustainable solutions for the healthcare sector. By leveraging their diverse expertise, students are able to address global challenges and contribute to innovative, sustainable approaches that positively impact both society and the environment.

Dr. Van Essen’s visit was an enriching experience for all participants, underscoring GIFT University’s ongoing commitment to cultivating a culture of growth, excellence, and leadership. His contributions will leave a lasting impact on both the academic and personal development of our community.