Dutch cities launch initiatives to welcome new students

Dutch cities Breda and Zwolle have launched initiatives to welcome new students and integrate them into their local communities at the start of the academic year.

In Breda, the ‘Welkom in jouw studentenstad’ campaign is a collaborative effort between the municipality, Breda Marketing, and educational institutions. Aimed at over 11,000 new students, the program uses videos, digital displays, and local hotspots to encourage students to explore cultural, sporting, and social venues. The goal is to foster a long-term connection between young talent and the city to encourage them to live and work in Breda after graduation.

In Zwolle, the annual ‘Bruisweken’ serves similar purposes for mbo and hbo students. Erika Diender, chair of Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, stated that the goal is to create a sense of community and make students feel at home in the city. The introduction includes campus-based activities and city-wide events, concluding with the Bruisfestival. Organizers have also implemented low-stimulus zones to accommodate students who require quieter environments.