The University of Lucerne awarded three honorary doctorates at its Dies Academicus on 22 October 2026, recognising the contributions of Professor Stephan Meier, Professor Susanne Walitza and Professor Joseph Ciarrochi. 

The ceremony brought together representatives from academia and public life to reflect on the university’s development and the role of higher education in a rapidly changing world.

In her keynote address, Competence Development in the Age of Generative AI: A Cognitive Psychology Perspective, Assistant Professor of Legal Psychology Helen Wyler explored how AI affects learning. While generative AI can improve performance, it does not necessarily build lasting expertise. Developing competence still requires active learning and independent thinking, she argued, highlighting the challenge for universities of helping students use AI effectively without undermining their ability to think critically and exercise sound judgement.

The ceremony highlighted the University of Lucerne’s commitment to advancing research and education while keeping people, critical thinking and the responsible use of technology at the centre.

Further information: 
Additional information, video recordings and highlights
Note regarding the commemorative lecture on December 2, 2026 (Professor Walitza)