University concerned about minister’s plans to curb internationalisation
Leiden University is concerned about the plans presented by Minister of Education, Culture and Science Robbert Dijkgraaf to limit English-taught courses in higher education. If these plans go forward, the university believes this could have major consequences for our international students and staff. Leiden University places tremendous value on the international character of our education.
The minister presented his plans during last Thursday’s parliamentary debate on the internationalisation of higher education. Members of the Lower House have expressed concerns about the increase in English-taught education. In response, the minister wants to draft new legislation, and his plans will be worked out in the coming months.
Unease and concerns
‘We hope to be able to talk to the minister soon, because we are really concerned about this’, said Rector Magnificus Hester Bijl in her first reaction to this news. ‘The plans are causing a lot of questions and unease among our international students and staff. We believe that a truly international classroom offers our students a tremendous advantage, and this should not be lost. Our internationals are an integral part of our community. We will do everything we can to influence the further development of the minister’s plans.’