Congratulations to 100 years of excellence in education and research!

The Stockholm School of Economics was founded to meet the needs of a rapidly developing country. The school has during the past decade been the home of numerous scholars of world class. Its international reputation is solid, illustrated not least by honorary doctors from all over the world being present here today.

Maybe even more important is that the Stockholm School of Economics has educated and prepared more than 15.000 students for a professional career both academically as well as socially.

The school has not only served its students and faculty well, but also Sweden as a country. The Stockholm School of Economics has been - and is - an outstanding source of knowledge and competence when Swedish industries and other parts of our society are recruiting personnel able to compete successfully within the globalized economy.

The Stockholm School of Economics has in addition to its activities in Sweden also played an important role in developing the Baltic Sea Region. Future academical and industrial leaders are being educated for the benefit of our neighbouring countries.

For Sweden, the advancement of excellence in education and research is important for our possibility to stay competitive. The Stockholm School of Economics is a good example of what can be achieved if goals and standards are set high.

Once again, congratulations to 100 years of excellence in education and research. I wish you all success in the years to come.