Grotius Minor grants recognized refugees access to community, entrepreneurship and higher education.
About this good practice
Since an educational background is the single biggest factor for success in the region, non-EU migrants are especially vulnerable - in particular, if they also lack basic language skills. Not providing education increases the municipality´s costs for long-term social assistance, as well as the risk of people ending up in socio-economic vulnerability. Therefore, Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen has developed with the help of the regional partners.
The Grotius Program is a preparatory trajectory for recognized refugees with a refugee background who wish to pursue higher education. The labor market in North Netherlands for higher educated employees is very good, so the program fulfills a need.
The Grotius Program is designed for recognized refugees currently residing in the Northern Netherlands who are in the process of integration or have already completed it. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to pursue higher education in the Netherlands (diploma evaluation via UAF/Nuffic) and have a good command of the Dutch language (at least B1-B2 level). Additionally, participants must be available on Monday and Wednesday afternoons, and attendance is mandatory. It is expected that participants wholeheartedly endorse the core values of Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen: individual development, respect and active tolerance, entrepreneurship, and responsibility.
The program focuses on developing the skills necessary for higher vocational education.
Resources needed
Within the network, partners, staff, and professors generously contribute their time voluntarily. university dedicates approximately 1 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) to the program. In terms of infrastructure costs, the Grotius program necessitates two classrooms for two afternoons a week.
Evidence of success
Grotius Minor significantly enhances support for non-EU migrants,
Participation Facts:
- Participants (2022-2023): 147
- Dropout: 31
- Proof of attendance: 24
- Certificate recipients: 92
Output towards Further Education:
- Bachelor's level: 36
- VBJ, Preparatory Year: 17
- University level (research University): 15
- Vocational education: 25
- Unknown: 20
The labor market in North Netherlands for educated persons is very good, so the program works fine.
Potential for learning or transfer
The strategies that informed the Grotius minor proved to be valuable. To start a breeding ground for further education has had it value. Also when we look at the outputs. The Programme itself is written and can be shared with others on request. Keep in mind the value of the network. The power of the Grotius Minor is that students are helped but also that the ecosystem knows about what other partners and stakeholders do within the network.
More than a hundred people are involved in the program. The dedication of the staff and administration is remarkable. An important aspect of success.
Therefore, we believe that there are many parts of this approach for other regions to be inspired by. Since non-EU migrants make up a large share of the target group, the combination of work-like activity and skill-enhancing efforts - such as language training, vocational training, and civic orientation - is key.
Further information
Images
Documents
HANZE-21_0744 Fact & figures Grotius.pdf
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen