On 23 September 2025, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) will officially open its new Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS) at the university’s main campus in Etterbeek. The state-of-the-art facility will serve not only as a hub for martial arts training, but also as a living lab where academic research, elite sport and community impact come together.
CEMAS aims to harness the power of martial arts to empower young people in Brussels, with a particular focus on those in vulnerable situations, while also promoting social cohesion. The centre’s work has been developed in collaboration with key partners including the Flemish Government, the Flemish Community Commission and the Flemish Boxing League.
The opening ceremony will give visitors a first-hand look at the innovative space and its ambitions, highlighting how the project combines science, sport and social engagement.
The event coincides with VUB’s opening of the 2025–2026 academic year, also taking place on the Etterbeek campus in the afternoon. The programme will include the formal academic ceremony, guided tours and opportunities to experience the campus as a vibrant centre for research and education.
The opening of CEMAS is expected to be a highlight in VUB’s calendar, marking a new chapter in the university’s commitment to using sport as a catalyst for both scientific progress and societal change.