What does the binding resolution on self-direction mean for Fontys?

Over 92 per cent of the students in the higher vocational education sector (HBO) are Dutch. 92 per cent of courses are offered in Dutch, with 80 per cent offered exclusively in Dutch. Only 8 per cent of programs are exclusively available in a language other than Dutch. Although these figures do not indicate that the intake of foreign students is excessive, fact is that international intake in higher education does exert pressure on society. Housing issues are the primary concern; the shortage in the housing market is a serious problem. There are also other issues, particularly at universities, such as overcrowded lecture halls, high workloads for lecturers, and potentially reduced accessibility of education for Dutch students. Such concerns have led to increasing criticism in recent years (from both society and politicians) regarding the international student intake.

Self-direction
Minister Dijkgraaf of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) has called on higher education institutions to put forward proposals for regulating international intake. The Association of Universities of Applied Sciences responded immediately. Progress was made when a binding resolution was passed at the general membership meeting. This demonstrates that the universities of applied sciences view this as a collective effort, with all institutions therefore committing to several measures/promises.

What are the agreements in the binding resolution? Agreements were made regarding the following issues, in order:

• language (such as improving the language skills of both students and lecturers);
• housing (increased and intensified cooperation with municipalities and housing associations);
• stay rate (bringing relevant parties together to discuss increasing the  - the number of foreign students who stay in the   Netherlands after completing their studies);
• recruitment (developing a joint recruitment strategy)
• Offering programs in languages other than Dutch (by mutual agreement between the universities of applied sciences)

Fontys' vision
Fontys strongly supports the proposals in the binding resolution. By putting forward these proposals ourselves, we are assuming our social responsibility for the regions (and the regional economy), as well as for society as a whole. Moreover, it is up to us to show that internationalisation also offers advantages. This last point aligns seamlessly with our Fontys for society strategy and our recently established vision of internationalisation. This approach allows us to better meet the needs of the labour market in our internationally oriented regions (from an economic perspective). It also recognises the contribution that international students can make in helping all our students develop into global citizens, citizens who are open-minded and active members of our society and play a role in strengthening social cohesion in the Netherlands.

What's next?
In early March, the Association of Universities of Applied Sciences (VH) finalised the resolution and sent it wednesday 13th March to the Minister of Education, Culture, and Science. The next step is for the House of Representatives to debate the proposals (including those from universities) with the minister in relation to the Internationalisation in Balance Bill. The debate is expected to take place in May or June. Meanwhile, Fontys is actively working to realise its vision of internationalisation by further shaping its policies regarding its portfolio, recruitment, language and student housing.

Are you an international student or employee and wondering what all this means for you? Here are some questions and answers:

Are international students and international employees still welcome at Fontys University of Applied Sciences? Yes! All Dutch universities of Applied Sciences, including Fontys, are currently re-emphasising the importance of internationalisation and of foreign-language programmes and the value international students and employees have for the Netherlands.

What are the consequences of this proposal for my study or work at Fontys? There are no consequences for your study or work at Fontys. This proposal is intended to improve the support which all Dutch universities of applied sciences offer to international students and staff while studying and working in the Netherlands

What might change in the near future? All Dutch universities of applied sciences, including Fontys, are going to work collectively. Focusing on better integration of international students and staff within Dutch society. 
We’re continuing developing our language courses for students and staff to increase their Dutch language proficiency. We’re also focusing on working with our regional partners to secure safe student housing of a high quality for our international students. Collectively we’re developing our foreign language taught programmes based on the needs of society and industry while keeping our eye on our responsibility to our students and staff. We’re working towards an inclusive future where international students and staff can work and live successfully in the Netherlands

Who can I turn to with my questions?
Students can always contact their student coach. Staff are welcome to ask their line manager.