Graduation Ceremony of the LL.M. Advanced Studies in International Children’s Rights 2024–2025
On 28 August 2025, Leiden Law School was filled with joy, reflection, and celebration as the LL.M. Advanced Studies in International Children’s Rights class of 2024–2025 marked their graduation. Graduates, family members, friends, and distinguished guests gathered in Leiden and many more joined via livestream to honour the achievements of 17 students who successfully completed this intensive programme dedicated to children’s rights.
The ceremony opened with a powerful address from Programme Director Prof. Ann Skelton, who reminded graduates that this day marked not just the end of their studies, but the beginning of their onward journeys. Drawing inspiration from The Little Prince, she reflected on the need to defend what is “essential yet invisible” children’s dignity, empowerment, and worth. Prof. Skelton urged the graduates to carry forward three guiding principles: curiosity, caring, and action. In her words, “In a world where the tough guys are winning, caring is radical. Love is a curved ball in a room full of war-mongers.” She concluded with a call to courage, clarity, and persistence: “Don’t let the bullies win.”
Each graduate was individually recognised by their thesis supervisor, who celebrated their dedication, resilience, and passion. Personal reflections captured the diversity and richness of the cohort, which brought together students from across the globe with unique experiences and perspectives.
A highlight of the ceremony was the valedictory speech by Ms. Vaishnavi Ramalingam, who reflected on the journey of the class with both humour and heartfelt sincerity. She shared her personal story as the first in her family to pursue higher education at this level, dedicating her achievement to her parents and loved ones watching from afar. Speaking on behalf of the class, she celebrated the transformation they had all undergone.
Vaishnavi paid tribute to the professors and staff for challenging and supporting the students in equal measure, and to her classmates for their resilience, diversity, and unwavering solidarity. From classroom debates and study sessions to shared laughter, countless photographs, and cards passed around to support each other, she described a class that knew how to cherish every moment. She concluded by affirming the collective strength of the cohort: “If there’s one thing we’ve proven to ourselves this year, it is that we have the strength and the resilience to face challenges, grow through them, and keep moving forward.”
Participation in this programme is made possible for several students through the generosity of donors. One such initiative is the Kuiper-Overpelt Study Fund, a scholarship programme that enables talented students from developing countries to pursue the Master of Laws Advanced Studies in International Children’s Rights, provided they meet all admission criteria. Thanks to this support, graduates such as Mr. Tugwell Chadyiwanembwa have been able to realise their ambitions and contribute to advancing children’s rights worldwide.
The ceremony concluded with the joyful tradition of tossing graduation caps, symbolizing both an ending and a new beginning.
Photo Credits: Monique Shaw
