Discover Benelux, Issue 69, September 2019

Page 44

Photo: Sven Scholten

Future-orientated learning in Apeldoorn and beyond TEXT: MAYA WITTERS  |  PHOTOS: WITTENBORG

There are plenty of universities to choose from for those looking to take the academic route, but Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences, headquartered in Apeldoorn, approaches things differently. With a curriculum full of practical, applied programmes, a profound dedication to diversity, and classes exclusively in English, they create a firmly future-orientated environment for students. “No one is in the majority here, so everyone can learn from each other.” Wittenborg University started off as a business school, and its roots still show in the practical, job-orientated nature of the programmes offered. This practicality also shines through in the way the school handles admissions. 44  |  Issue 69  |  September 2019

“The world is becoming smaller, so we respond by trying to make our university staff and student population as diverse as possible,” attests CEO Maggie Feng. “Our goal was to have 100 different nationalities represented by 2023. In fact, we already have over 100 now, but the challenge is to keep up that diversity on a permanent basis.”

Diversity as empowerment This 100-nationality goal is not just a target number for Wittenborg. The school firmly believes that diversity is an enrichment for students and teachers alike. “Because everyone is in the minority – even the Dutch, who only make up ten per cent of our school population – no single culture is dominant. So everyone has to adjust equally, it’s not just the for-

eign students who have to adapt to the Dutch culture.” “This means that no one is at a disadvantage. There are no groups or factions; everyone’s individual contribution counts. This also offers an exciting challenge for our teachers: a highly tailored approach is needed to make sure we cater to everyone’s learning styles, so they are constantly learning, as well,” beams Feng.

Challenge equals growth Wittenborg has a highly individual selection procedure that involves a one-onone Skype call with a staff member. “The call helps us assess whether we think the student’s English is up to scratch and whether they are ready for the level of independence required to adapt


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Discover Benelux, Issue 69, September 2019 by Scan Client Publishing - Issuu