Jetten highlights additional funding for education at the start of the academic year

On Wednesday, the Arnhem and Nijmegen University of Applied Sciences opened the new academic year. Prime Minister Rob Jetten was there to give a speech.

The FNV trade union was waiting for him, protesting against the dismantling of the social security system. They gave Jetten a symbolic "safety net", which he accepted cheerfully before walking inside to deliver his speech.

Speaking to an audience of students, staff and other interested parties, Jetten highlighted the 600 million euros that the government is allocating to higher education and science. “A substantial investment,” in his words.

Jetten also highlighted the "talent strategy" through which the government aims to pay more attention to certain fields, including artificial intelligence, security, energy and biotechnology. That strategy has yet to be finalised, so he said little about it.

Mistakes
The Dutch Prime Minister made a particular case for making mistakes. “Behind every success lies a long series of setbacks and failed attempts,” he told his audience. According to him, innovation requires “guts, perseverance and a willingness to take a risk every now and then”.

The coalition parties D66, VVD and CDA are currently working on the national budget for 2027 and seeking support from opposition parties. With the 600 million euros mentioned by Jetten, his minority cabinet aims to reverse the previous government’s budget cuts.

Last April, Education Minister Rianne Letschert outlined how she intends to allocate the additional funds. The 600 million mentioned by Jetten is part of the 1.5 billion euros earmarked for the entire education and research sector.