As English-language education is growing more popular in Flanders, the region – which seems reluctant to further adjust its policies to include the language – has been warned to make sure it does not "miss the boat."
While full or partial English-language programmes and courses in Dutch-speaking universities and colleges are far from new, applications for English-language Bachelor's degrees have skyrocketed, with a 200% increase this year.
More foreign students have been finding their way to Belgium in recent years, but part of the rise is due to the growing number of Flemish students now also opting for English-language programmes – mainly to prepare themselves for an international and diverse workplace.
"English classes are a big plus for Belgians. Many companies around Brussels with Flemish and French employees are choosing English as their business language," Annik Schellens, Manager of International Programmes at Thomas More told my colleague Lauren Walker.
By starting a programme in English, students can be better prepared for this and make a natural transition to working in international spaces. "Here, they learn how to work with people from another background, which is also beneficial for their careers."
However, Flemish Education Minister Ben Weyts – known as an avid supporter of preserving Dutch-language education – is adamant that the anglicisation of education needs to be controlled.
He understands that universities are responding to requests from different sectors, and that they want to attract more foreign students and therefore have to profile themselves in an international context. "We do leave room for that, but we still hold on to those restrictions because obviously, the language of instruction remains Dutch."
According to the sector, however, Flanders risks losing out by not adapting to this trend.
What do you think? Let @Maajtee know.
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