Letter hints at Dutch-language priority for academia

Science minister promises policy that will “promote proficiency” among students to counter international influx

Dutch universities have been asked to “promote the mastery” of the Dutch language among international students as part of a bill to address high international student numbers in the country.

In a letter to the Dutch parliament (a formal way for the government to outline future policy, education), culture and science minister Robbert Dijkgraaf said that a better command of Dutch would increase students’ opportunities on the labour market. He also said that having Dutch as the main language on campus would improve student supervision and the enforcement of rules for good academic conduct.