Students ‘critical’ about decision to cancel cabinet introduction NOW

The Interurban Student Consultation (ISO) and the National Chamber of Associations (LKvV) are “critical” about the way in which the cabinet’s decision was made to cut out physical introduction activities as much as possible. In addition, they are, just like the National Student Union, afraid that new students will miss a bond with their study city or institution and therefore achieve less results.

“We are relieved that some of the introduction activities may continue, but critical of how this decision was made. The Prime Minister has called on young people to think along, but they are not involved in this decision about young people,” said ISO President Dahran Çoban.

During a press conference, Prime Minister Rutte announced that the cabinet has decided that introduction activities should take place online as much as possible.

Physical introductory meetings are only allowed if they are small-scale and informative in nature. “All this happens without alcohol and with an end time of 22:00,” said Rutte. Hazing is also prohibited.

“A national restriction is now being imposed with little room for customization in the region, which students would like to engage in,” says Çoban.

“I don’t really understand where the cabinet’s concern towards student associations comes from,” says Yorick van der Heiden, chairman of the LKvV. “I went to student associations where they adhered very strictly to the measures. Perhaps even more than in the catering industry.”

‘Possibly less motivation due to lack of bond’

Freya Chiappino, vice-president of the National Student Union, expresses her concerns about the possible effect on the study results of new students. “If you are not connected to your study city or college or university, it is very difficult. Think of student welfare, but also motivation. It can also be difficult to ask for help if you have not yet seen each other.”

Van der Heiden also has misunderstanding about the national decision that has been made about student associations, while the cabinet is taking measures locally or regionally in other areas.

“We think it is strange that this also applies to Groningen, Enschede and Maastricht, for example. Students are now being denied the opportunity to get acquainted with their study city. In our view, this was absolutely unnecessary.”

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