Hello rector Torfs – Hello Camilla
First of all, thank you for taking the time out
of your busy schedule to speak with me today.
Well, thank you, this is the best moment of my terrible day so far.
I'm glad. Can I ask you some questions?
Sure, go ahead.
The university has always been a centre of wisdom and learning,
and the view here today is magnificent,
but what makes it so fascinating to work for the university today?
Well, it is a beautiful tradition. Although the professors
of the 15th century aren’t active any longer, unfortunately.
But we have brilliant, open-minded people here today as well.
Excellent professors coming from all possible countries –
and also at the same time exceptional human beings.
Free minds, enjoying life also, over here.
The pubs, the restaurants… The drinking and the thinking.
The university has such an impressive and turbulent past
but are there any challenges you see in the future?
Well, turbulent past, absolutely. So we were involved
in all kinds of political and religious discussions in the past.
And, as a matter of fact, this building was set on fire
during World War I, at the very beginning of it, by the Germans.
So it has not always been very easy but I think at the same time,
well, there will be a beautiful future; in discussion sometimes,
with politicians and also in collaboration with other players in society:
industrial players, artists, etcetera.
But we will remain a place of absolute freedom.
And finally, what message would you like to deliver
to visitors of KU Leuven?
Well, the university is present here everywhere.
So look at the details, in the small places.
These are the most precious ones.
And for the rest, enjoy the freedom of thinking;
the beauty of a completely intellectual place
with a lot of history that Leuven is and will remain.
And by the way, I heard you're a famous TV star in Belgium.
What are your plans for the future?
Well unfortunately, I'm a retired TV star
but we could try to start a new programme:
“Murder in the promotion hall”.
Ha ha. I look forward to it.
He's so nice!