Dijkgraaf to prospective students: go study what is right for you
Study-goers should not be blinded by the ‘height’ of a study programme and, above all, look at what study programme suits them well. So writes minister Dijkgraaf in an open letter in the newspaper AD.
Vwo graduates (pre-university education) do not necessarily have to go to university. If they prefer to go into professional practice, they can do so. Conversely, mbo graduates (vocational college) are also free to continue studying at hbo (higher professional education). According to him, our current performance culture “damages the health of our education system”. Young people, their parents and tutors often stare blindly at the level of ‘education’ and the persistent value judgement that seems to be attached to it when choosing to study. But higher, argues Dijkgraaf, is not necessarily better.
Because the urgency is high. 1 in 4 Dutch students is currently switching studies and was therefore apparently not in the right place. Young people would do better to choose a study that gives them satisfaction and pleasure. Prospective students should look at both practical and theoretical directions. “Make the ladder a range. A range of options with equal ratings, where you can always go further in all directions.” (HOP, PvT)
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