Student refugees project needs you: become a buddy
Are you a VUB'er who thinks inclusiveness is very important? Would you like to assist refugees and actively involve them in our VUB community? Do you have a good command of the English and Dutch language? Then the buddy project is something for you!
In response to the migration flow in Belgium, which peaked in 2015, VUB has set up the Student Refugee Programme for students who want to continue or start their academic studies after having had to flee their country of origin. In this way, the VUB wants to facilitate access to higher education for refugee students. As a buddy you can play a very important role in this!
Concretely, you take the role of a local friend who gives the refugee tips about Brussels and the VUB. You help him or her to get to know the new, confusing city better and to meet new people. For example, you go for walks with the student, take him or her to nice coffee spots, show them cozy neighborhoods and so on. In addition, you have the important task of helping them to overcome the language barrier. For example, you translate important Dutch documents into English so that the student knows what is expected of him or her. With your help, the refugees will be truly integrated in our VUB-community and they can enjoy the fine social life that the VUB offers. So don't hesitate and sign up as a buddy!
Vacancy
You are...
- A VUB'er who values inclusiveness
You have...
- A good knowledge of English
- A good knowledge of Dutch (at least B1 level)
What's in it for you?
- You learn about other cultures
- You have a first (minimal) experience as a language tutor
- You help to make the students part of the community
- You will help to build a new story
- You meet people from all over the world
Contact details
Projectleader: Khaola Al Rifai
E-mail: Khaola.Al.Rifai@vub.be
*As an Urban Engaged University, we call upon our VUB community to help build a better world through social engagement. On the "The World Needs You" platform, the VUB collects socially meaningful projects on which students, staff, alumni and sympathisers can collaborate. These projects do not represent the university. The initiatives and communication are the responsibility of the project organisers and do not represent the university's position.