Our partnerships

NHL Stenden is strongly rooted in the region thanks to our partners and collaborations. As a leading knowledge and innovation partner, we focus on improving shared prosperity in the north of the Netherlands and beyond. Using our expertise in research and education, we respond to current issues and are a relevant party in terms of the labour market, innovation, digitalisation, health and well-being, education, and sustainability. Using our challenging educational concept ‘Design-Based Education’ students, lecturers and researchers work together on real-life questions and test their innovative ideas in practice.

Our strategic partners

UASNL

The Universities of Applied Sciences Netherlands (UASNL) represents a collaboration of 17 universities of applied sciences working to increase the visibility of Dutch practice-based research and innovation in Brussels. Their mission is to support the European Commission in tackling key challenges across Europe. A dedicated liaison officer in Brussels represents UASNL’s interests, focusing on enhancing the profile of universities of applied sciences, building international networks, and contributing to European policy development.

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RUN-EU

NHL Stenden is a member of the RUN-EU network, a collaboration of eight European universities and institutions, co-funded by Erasmus+. RUN-EU aims to transform higher education through international cooperation and the development of future-oriented skills. By participating in this network, NHL Stenden helps drive regional prosperity through partnerships with education providers, businesses, and local governments.

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Fryslân Education Accord

Five educational institutions, including NHL Stenden and the University of Groningen, are working together under the Fryslân Education Accord. This initiative aims to establish Fryslân as a dynamic and innovative region where learning, living, and working converge. The accord focuses on creating world-class campuses, training adaptable professionals, and positioning Fryslân as a leader in the circular economy. In collaboration with entrepreneurs and governments, projects such as Lifelong Development, the Digital Workplace, and WRK-Lab are being developed to strengthen broad regional prosperity.

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Association of Universities of Applied Sciences

The Association of Universities of Applied Sciences (VH) works to enhance education and research across 36 universities of applied sciences. In collaboration with Regieorgaan SIA, the association focuses on six themes identified in the Knowledge and Innovation Agendas (KIAs). Through thematic discussions, the universities work with partners on topics including energy and sustainability, agriculture, water and food, health and care, safety, key technologies, and societal earning capacity.

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Greenwise Campus

Greenwise Campus is a partnership between NHL Stenden, Drenthe College, the University of Groningen, the Province of Drenthe, and the Municipality of Emmen. This collaboration focuses on making the region more sustainable and innovative. Businesses, knowledge institutions, and governments come together to develop solutions to major challenges, such as sustainable energy, labour shortages, and green chemistry. The campus focuses on four key transitions: the circular economy, sustainable energy, digitalisation, and positive health. The Innovation Centre serves as the campus’s beating heart, driving collaboration and innovation for a smarter, more sustainable future.

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University of the North

Northern knowledge institutions, including NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, the University of Groningen, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Van Hall Larenstein, and the UMCG, collaborate under the banner of the University of the North. This partnership focuses on fostering innovation and strengthening broad prosperity in the Northern Netherlands and North-West Germany, guided by the regional innovation strategy (RIS3).

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Maritime Simulation Training Centre (MSTC)

Located on Terschelling, the Maritime Simulation Training Centre (MSTC) offers unique simulation-based training to students from Dutch maritime academies. Students can gain valuable sea time through intensive training on state-of-the-art simulators, the only ones of their kind in the world. The centre provides a safe and realistic learning environment where students develop essential skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork. Its bridge and engine room simulators can be combined to create a complete ship operation simulation. The MSTC is fully DNV-certified and ensures a seamless integration of theory and practice.

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Aletta Jacobs School of Public Health (AJSPH)

The Aletta Jacobs School of Public Health (AJSPH) is a collaboration between the University of Groningen, UMCG, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, and NHL Stenden. As a leader in healthy ageing in the Northern Netherlands, AJSPH connects researchers, lecturers, healthcare professionals, residents, and policymakers, both regionally and internationally. By facilitating dialogue, AJSPH promotes knowledge exchange, removes barriers, and inspires innovative ideas and initiatives. The school drives forward-thinking education and works towards a healthier future with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and community well-being.

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