A few hits: educational curriculums in the Bachelor College (BC) and Graduate School (GS) will get an innovative (through blended learning) and international (in developing the International Classroom) character. More and more bachelor programs will be offered in English to attract more international undergraduates helping meet TU/e-ambitions by 2020.

All TU/e students and staff will be trained if necessary in communicating in good oral and written English as the lingua franca we all share on campus, and the internationals will get the opportunity to learn (some) Dutch language & culture to be able to really ‘leven’ in NL, opposed to only ‘overleven’ (with only English). But it goes further than language only. Topics like intercultural awareness & communication also need to be part of regular educational programs in the BC and GS, see Hussein’s story above.  

Going further, we also want to create a broader basis for mutual understanding where knowledge of differences and an attitude of respect and acceptance (and even appreciation!) of our diversity exist and help develop and apply best practices in dealing with one another. Two areas probably need special attention: study associations and the various bodies and councils within TU/e. There is a growing sense of community in the former, as I experienced dealing recently with the organizers of the Career Events. Although they may appear rather traditional in their advertising that free beer for their Kick-off borrel (see column of Sept. 29), they also want to join the intercultural dance parties around TU/e-campus. Yes, it takes 2 to tango!

On the other hand, some councils may wake up having newly elected internationals on board. Let’s see what happens at the coming elections. Maybe food for a next column, as these two areas serve as indicators for the degree of integration between the various groups of our community. Want to experience the hard core of the onion? Stay tuned for more!