Higher education can soon structurally support sports and canteens

In future, universities and universities of applied sciences will be permitted to make regular contributions to student sport, culture and campus facilities such as canteens. Minister Letschert announced this in a letter (in Dutch) to Parliament on student wellbeing.

Until now, institutions were officially only permitted to spend public funds on education and research. Stricter enforcement threatened to make sports clubs and cultural initiatives considerably more expensive. Following protests, this policy had already been temporarily relaxed.

The government now wishes to allow this support on a permanent basis via an exception to the rules. The exact details are not yet known.

Social cohesion

Research shows that without support, student sport and culture would ‘deteriorate’ or even disappear. Although subsidising such activities may conflict with fair competition (for example, with commercial gyms), Letschert considers the social value to be decisive. According to her, sport and culture contribute to students’ well-being, social cohesion and personal development.

She also wishes to exempt student canteens and other facilities for students and staff. Without this amendment, institutions might have to repay funds, which the minister considers undesirable. (HOP)