Join the Language buddy programme!
The Language Buddy Programme connects University of Twente employees who are learning Dutch with a Dutch-speaking colleague in an informal and supportive way. The programme is designed to complement Dutch language courses by creating opportunities to practice Dutch outside the classroom and in real-life situations.
Over a period of ten weeks, language learners and language buddies meet regularly to have conversations in Dutch about everyday topics such as hobbies, daily life, and shared interests. The focus is not on teaching or correcting grammar, but on building confidence, improving communication skills, and creating meaningful connections between colleagues.
The programme contributes to a more inclusive and connected university community by bringing colleagues together through language and conversation.
Whether you would like to support a colleague as a language buddy or further develop your Dutch as a language learner, the Language Buddy Programme offers a valuable opportunity to learn from one another and connect across the UT community.
Programme summary:
Duration: 10 weeks
Time commitment: Approximately one hour per week
Format: Informal one-to-one conversations
Location: On campus, online, or a combination of both
For Dutch-learning colleagues
Would you like to have more opportunities to practice speaking Dutch and improve your language skills? The UT Language Centre is starting a new round of the Language Buddy Programme in Q1 of the 2026–2027 academic year.
As a language buddy, you will be paired with a Dutch-speaking colleague from the University of Twente. Together you will meet about half an hour to an hour per week for 10 weeks to practice Dutch in an informal setting. The conversations can be about everyday topics such as daily life, hobbies or shared interests. The goal is simply to practice speaking Dutch in a relaxed way.
The programme is designed to help you:
- build more confidence when speaking Dutch
- practice the language in real-life conversations
- connect with colleagues across the UT community
Participation is flexible and informal, and you can plan the meetings together at a time that works for both of you.
Please note that participation during work hours is possible in consultation with your supervisor/manager.
For Dutch speaking colleagues
Many international colleagues at the University of Twente would like to further develop their Dutch language skills. To support them, the UT Language Centre, in collaboration with HR, is launching the Language Buddy Programme.
As a language buddy, you practice Dutch together with a colleague in an informal setting. Think of conversations about everyday situations, hobbies, or shared interests. There is no teaching involved, just practicing together. One hour per week over a period of 10 weeks, with flexible scheduling.
The impact of a language buddy
For your colleague:
• More confidence in using Dutch
• More job satisfaction and better integration in the workplace
• Practical language skills for everyday situations
For you:
• Development of communication and coaching skills
• New connections within UT
• The satisfaction of contributing to the UT community
For the organisation:
• An inclusive workplace culture
• Better collaboration and mutual connection
Who are we looking for?
Colleagues who:
• Are proficient in the Dutch language (B2/C1 or higher)
• Are patient and engaged
• Are willing to invest 1 hour per week (during working hours, in consultation with your supervisor/manager)
Further information
UT Language Centre
Support Office
