A Dutch National Student Association has voiced its complaints about the skyrocketing number of international students — indeed, 1 in every 4 students in the Netherlands comes from abroad.
The Interstedelijk Studenten Overleg (ISO), in particular, feels there needs to be a temporary break from the constant stream of international students, reports Nu.nl.
An international student “crisis”
International students have been the hot topic of conversation over the last few months, with more and more Dutchies agreeing that there are just far too many in the country.
READ MORE | The population of the Netherlands is booming (thanks to us internationals)
“Something has to be done, because this influx is at the expense of quality,” says Van der Velden, spokesperson for the ISO, to NU.nl.
The larger groups of students have increased the workload for teachers, which in turn has contributed to a deterioration of the quality of education in the country.
READ MORE | Not yet: Dutch government won’t regulate intake of international students
ISO thinks that a temporary hold on accepting international students in Dutch universities will create more breathing room for current students and teachers.
Not an easy decision
Education Minister Robert Dijkgraad has argued for a permanent hiatus on international students.
At least 40% of students at Dutch Universities come from abroad, leaving less room in classrooms for Dutch nationals.
READ MORE | University of Amsterdam concerned by the rise in international students
However, a spokesperson from the ISO believes that the Dutch “can learn a lot from other cultures in education,” which makes it difficult to refuse entry to foreigners immediately.
What’s the solution?
The main problem is that most internationals go to the same cities. Mainly, Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam.
READ MORE | Universities outside the Randstad don’t want to limit the intake of international students
If this number were spread out among the smaller cities, then the Netherlands won’t face as many issues with overcrowding at universities.
What do you think of the international student crisis? Tell us in the comments below!
How does “one in four students” end up being 40 per cent”?
Just another article without any proof of evidence