More than 3,000 students from 40 countries graduate from OBS Business School
L'Auditori de Barcelona welcomes over 2,000 people in a ceremony marked by international diversity
Last Saturday, July 12th, L'Auditori de Barcelona was filled with emotion and pride during the Graduation Ceremony of OBS Business School, held for the first time alongside INESDI Business Techschool.
The event was presided over by José Creuheras, President of Grupo Planeta and Atresmedia, and featured a special appearance by Xavier Puig, who served as the ceremony’s guest of honor. Puig — President of the Puig Foundation, Puig Family Council, and former CEO of FLAMASATS for over 20 years — delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging graduates to lead with purpose and commitment in an ever-changing world.
Also seated at the presidential table were several key academic figures: Dr. Óscar Aguer, General Director of OBS and INESDI; Montse Civera, Academic Director of Planeta Formación y Universidades; Joana Sánchez, Founder of INESDI; Dr. Laura Guitart, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business at the University of Barcelona; Grethel Valdés, Secretary General of both institutions; and Dr. Casilda Güell, Dean of OBS Business School and INESDI Business Techschool.
A total of 1,000 students attended the ceremony in person, while more than 10,000 followed the event via streaming from different parts of the world. This hybrid format enabled a global connection with students' family and friends, in line with the international and digital identity that defines OBS and INESDI.
Throughout the day, the effort, resilience, and dedication of the graduates were highlighted—graduates trained in key competencies for today’s challenges, from digital transformation and business innovation to data analysis and sustainability. The commitment of both institutions to providing education aligned with market demands and aimed at developing leaders capable of generating positive impact was also emphasized.
Expanding the Alumni Community
It was a proud moment for the school to welcome the graduates to the international OBS Alumni network, a community that now exceeds 45,000 professionals around the world. This global talent ecosystem fosters continuous learning, the exchange of experiences, and professional networking, offering graduates opportunities to keep growing beyond the classroom.
The Most Moving Moment of the Ceremony
One of the most touching and memorable moments of the ceremony was the speech by Xavier Puig Alsina, the event’s honorary guest. Puig highlighted four fundamental values he considers essential to any shared project: common interest, aligned goals, pride of belonging, and harmony.
His words left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Recognizing Academic Excellence
Following the sash presentation, the awards ceremony took place, where OBS recognized the best projects, faculty members, and students.
Clara Julia Rubio, recipient of the Best Student Award and graduate of the Master’s in Business Intelligence and Analytics, shared heartfelt words with her classmates: “We came to this master’s program seeking new challenges and to reinvent ourselves. Some of us studied while balancing work and family, others made great efforts. Age doesn’t limit ability or passion.”
Next, José Baena, awarded Best Faculty Member and director of the Master’s in Production and Industrial Automation, also addressed the graduates: “It has been a year of great effort, both for the students and their families. This achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter, and it is essential to share the experiences we’ve had and what they’ve taught us.”
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the OBS Talent Awards 2025, recognizing the best Final Master’s Projects.
- 1º: Case Study: NaturNaks (Neuromarketing and Consumer Behavior)
2º: Take Me! By La Princesita (Branding y Estrategia de Marca)
3º: Recreative Cell (Project Management)
It was Dr. Óscar Aguer, General Director of OBS Business School, who brought the event to a close with an inspiring closing speech. During his address, he emphasized that 'this achievement represents much more than a degree: it is the beginning of a new chapter.
