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News update on internationalisation in higher education in the Netherlands

As you are no doubt aware, there is currently a lot of political discussion about internationalisation in higher education in the Netherlands. While we don't yet know exactly where this discussion will lead, we do know that the outcomes are relevant to us at the University of Twente. After all, we are a university with a large international community of staff and students, and we are part of a global community. We would like to keep you informed of the latest developments, for which we have set up a Topic page with all relevant information.

Appreciation for our international community

In the ongoing discussion, there is criticism of how internationalisation evolves at universities and universities of applied sciences. We want to emphasise that, at UT, we view our international students and staff as an integral part of our academic community, and will continue to welcome them warmly. We do so from the conviction that internationalisation contributes to a diverse and talented academic community, and from the added value that this international talent brings to regional and national labour market needs.

Political discussion

At the end of April, Minister Dijkgraaf of Education, Culture and Science sent a letter (in Dutch) to Dutch Parliament, setting out his thoughts and concerns about the internationalisation of higher education. The letter contains a number of concrete suggestions but also a number of issues that require further elaboration. You can read more about that letter in our April news item.

As a university, we are in dialogue with the minister, his officials, and with other universities. We are working with all the stakeholders to find appropriate solutions, such as effective legal instruments. We are also not sitting still internally, and are evaluating the possible consequences of various measures, and developing scenarios to deal with them adequately.

The next important moment will likely be on 15 June, when an important debate on the aforementioned letter will take place in the Lower House of Parliament.

Stay updated

Should there be any updates on this topic in the coming period, you will find them on the service portal and our social media channels. We also have a page with all relevant information on this topic. On this page, you will find a Q&A that answers the most frequently asked questions.

Should you have any questions or concerns about this topic: don't internalise and be stuck with your feelings, but talk about them with others. This can be done with your colleagues, for instance, or with fellow students, but you can also reach out to your manager or study advisor.