Independent journalism about VU Amsterdam | Since 1953
25 December 2025
Magazine
Nederlands

Science & Education

Internationalization 19 June 2025

Bruins can continue the ‘Balanced Internationalisation’ bill

In the run-up to new elections, the Dutch House of Representatives often shelves pending legislation – but not the “Balanced Internationalisation” bill, parties agreed today.
Debate 8 June 2025

Rectors want broad debate on academic freedom

University rectors are concerned about academic freedom in the Netherlands and want to start a broad dialogue about it. “The freedom to think and speak is under threat, from outside and from within.”
Politics 5 June 2025

Government fallen: what are the consequences for higher education?

This morning, Geert Wilders (PVV) pulled the plug on the government. It now has an outgoing status and new elections will be held. Is this good news for higher education and scientific research?
Students 2 June 2025

More students feel safe enough to be themselves

According to the National Student Survey, more and more students are positive about the atmosphere within their programme. They are also more likely to feel safe enough to be themselves at their educational institution.
Society 22 May 2025

Applying business skills where they matter

International Business Administration students rolled up their sleeves to try and help out a farm for undocumented migrants. ‘It’s not all about making money and getting rich.’
ICT 8 May 2025

‘Cybersecurity law will adversely affect education’

Higher education institutions are taking a stand against the government’s plan to include them in its new cyber security law. They argue that this approach will have an adverse effect on security and cost the taxpayer dearly.
Education 8 May 2025

25 million to bring threatened top researchers here

In the years ahead, 25 million euros will be available to bring scientists from the United States (and other countries) to the Netherlands. This is revealed in the ‘supplementary budget’ that was recently published by the government.
International 8 May 2025

Harvard changes name of diversity department

Harvard’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) department is getting a different name. This seems to be a concession to Trump, who is forcing American universities to abandon their ‘left-wing’ diversity programmes.
Science & Education 1 May 2025

Who will protect students whose study programme was scrapped?

If a programme is axed due to budget cuts, existing students still have the right to complete it, even if it takes them years. But who ensures that they are getting a good education? Inspector General Alida Oppers of the…
Arts 24 April 2025

Government puts an end to low-cost sports and culture at universities

Higher education institutions should no longer provide reduced-rate sports facilities, as the government believes this distorts the market. Cultural activities and canteen prices are also set to rise, among other things.