Eleven universities of applied sciences stand up for Caribbean students
Eleven universities of applied sciences join forces to improve the intake and progression of students from the Caribbean islands into higher professional education.
For many of these students, the transition to the Netherlands is a significant change, which negatively impacts their performance. Extra attention to their welcoming and guidance is crucial.
Every year, about 1,600 students from the Caribbean part of the Dutch Kingdom start their studies in the Netherlands. During their studies, they face so many challenges that they often do not complete their education. There are several reasons for this, with language and cultural differences being at the forefront. Additionally, both the preparation for further studies in Caribbean secondary education and the guidance provided in the Netherlands could be improved.
Kingdom-wide alliance
The four ministers of education within the Kingdom have launched the SEA (Strategic Education Alliance) programme to enhance the academic success of Caribbean students. SEA is a collaborative effort between Caribbean and Dutch educational institutions, ranging from MBO/SBO to university level, as well as governments.
Universities of applied sciences form a united front
To improve the academic success of Caribbean students, eleven universities of applied sciences have established a partnership under the name "Collaboration for Higher Education Success of Caribbean Students." In addition to support and facilitation, there is also a substantive goal to intensify and formalise the collaboration between universities of applied sciences. There is an urgent need at both Caribbean and Dutch institutions for an integrated approach to ensure that the activities of universities of applied sciences on the islands with Caribbean partners reinforce each other. This integrated approach aims to provide better information and guidance to potential students, as well as to foster collaboration in education and research on the islands.
Task force for student succes
On July 5th, the administrators of the participating universities of applied sciences confirmed their collaboration with their signatures. A national task force, consisting of representatives from the participating universities of applied sciences, is collectively working towards better preparation, such as career orientation and study choice, and appropriate guidance for Caribbean students in the Netherlands. The task force is doing this by participating in education fairs, providing workshops and information sessions, and setting up and implementing a joint preparation programme on the islands for prospective students.
Participating universities of applied sciences
The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen, Leiden University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, HAN, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, and Inholland University of Applied Sciences.
Author: Sander Peters. Source: Fontys.nl
