They can already be found in the pantries of several TU/e departments: public microwaves for staff and students to use to heat their meals or snacks. “But MetaForum is open to anyone. I don’t think we’d want all those students to resort to departmental pantries”, says Susanne Schouten of the Eindhoven Student Council (ESR).

And especially students need proper meals, even more so during exams, says the University Council party. Schouten says they opt for pizza now, or go home to grab a bite. A meal in the cafeteria is often more expensive, and they don’t serve meals on weekends, says ESR.

The microwave will be placed near the counter with cutlery and plates up the stairs from the cafeteria. Schouten explains there will be cleaning agents and wipes as well, so users may leave the microwave the way they found it afterwards. “We’re hoping people will handle the microwave decently.”

After two months, Internal Affairs and the Eindhoven Student Council will evaluate the use of the new microwave.