BackEvery year, around 1,600 students from the Caribbean part of the Kingdom embark optimistically on a study programme in the Netherlands, but many fail to make it to the end. The National Ombudsman drew attention to this issue. He investigated the challenges faced by Caribbean students and made recommendations for government and other organisations.
Why an investigation into Caribbean students?
"Oh, you must be used to this. Serving white people, I mean. It’s the perfect job for you." This is a comment made to Caribbean student Tays while she is working part-time in hospitality in Amsterdam alongside her studies. Tays can hardly believe her ears. Did her colleague really say that?
Tays comes from Bonaire. Her experience is no exception. Many young Caribbean people studying in the Netherlands face racism. But racism is not the only problem they have to tackle. Language issues, cultural differences, limited support and guidance, complex laws and regulations: the list goes on. The result? Many young Caribbeans get behind in their studies or fail to complete their degrees in the Netherlands. Debts pile up as a result and psychological issues can arise.
Keeping up the pressure
These signals have been on the National Ombudsman’s radar for a while. From the students themselves, but also from Kompas For Students, the foundation where Deon Bisslik and Viviana Lopez Paz work. It is dedicated to providing guidance to Caribbean students in the Netherlands and helping them prepare in advance on the islands. “In May 2017, we had already drawn the attention of the government and ministries to the problems faced by students. But it’s incredibly difficult finding structural solutions at that level. You really have to keep up the pressure,” says Deon Bisslik.
An investigation
When no changes are forthcoming, the National Ombudsman decides to embark on his own investigation. He is determined to find out what issues young Caribbeans actually face. And which relevant organisations can resolve the problems.
A team of researchers sets to work and introduced a series of initiatives, such as surveys, focus group meetings, interviews with students, and talks with staff of ministries, public bodies and organisations, to bring together the high number of players involved.
For the full press release on this topic, please visit the website of the National Ombudsman of the Netherlands.
Source: Office of the National Ombudsman of the Netherlands
