Learning the local language is an essential element for integration. It helps closing the gap between internationals and local Wageningers. We are happy with the developments the university is taking, as many international students are eager to learn Dutch. However, in the financial planning of the municipality, Wageningen solely wants to invest in offering English courses; it is believed that there are currently enough Dutch courses available. Yet, Dutch courses at the WUR are not accessible for expats and other social groups, are often completely full, and remain expensive for high quality courses. If the municipality does not invest its fair share in both languages, how will the municipality claim to pave the way for a more inclusive community of its residents. https://resource.wur.nl/en/student/show/Dutch-lessons-will-be-free-for-international-students.htm?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=Content&fbclid=IwAR21szeED9LlDbsXjDNBGmi4qNc7i9ptW74epiUdUgMZJ8ett3EmOS4dcb8
Wageningen University wants to make it easier for international students to learn Dutch. That is why the university’s language institute Wageningen in'to Languages will start offering its Social Dutch courses free of charge in 2019.