Mirjam van Praag resigns as chair of the AWTI on 1st of January 2027. She has come to this decision because the current interpretation of this presidency does not sufficiently match her expectations and ambitions.
Under Van Praag's presidency, a new strategy period began, with an emphasis on the concrete contribution of knowledge and innovation to solving societal challenges. During that period, Van Praag and the council issued several advisory reports, strengthened cooperation with other advisory councils, led various dialogue sessions, appeared in the media, wrote much-discussed opinion stories and advised the innovation policy of the current cabinet during its formation.
Vice-president Cisca Wijmenga: "The AWTI is very sorry that Mirjam is stepping down as our chair. Independent advice on science, technology and innovation is more important than ever, especially now. Mirjam brought in the relevant economic expertise and has taken important steps in the visibility of the organization, the broadening of our network, the direct applicability of our recommendations and increasing our impact. We will miss our inspired figurehead."
Mirjam van Praag will continue to work tirelessly for the AWI until she resigns as chair. After that, Vice-President Cisca Wijmenga will take over a number of the presidential tasks while the procedure for a new chair is ongoing.