NHL Stenden in conversation with Iranian students and keeping a close eye on international developments
Around 75 students from Iran are currently studying at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences. With the recent tensions and attacks in and around their home country, many of them are understandably worried about family and friends. Some are finding it difficult to stay in touch with loved ones back home, or to access their finances. Situations like these can bring uncertainty and stress, and sometimes make it harder to focus on studies. That’s why we’re giving these students extra attention and actively reaching out to talk with them about what they need. Because sometimes, the most important first step is simply starting the conversation.
Space to share concerns
Over the past few weeks, we organised two meetings with Iranian students. These gatherings created space for students to share what’s on their minds and talk about what’s currently happening in their lives.
Staff members from several departments joined the conversations—not with ready-made answers, but with open ears. Together with the students, they explored what kinds of support might help. Topics ranged from study progress and financial questions to mental wellbeing.
Students were also reminded of the supportservices available within the university, such as academic guidance from their study advisers (known in Dutch universities as studieloopbaanbegeleiders, who support students with academic progress and personal development) and other student supportservices.
Staying in touch with students in the United Arab Emirates
In addition to the students studying in the Netherlands, around twenty NHL Stenden students are currently in the United Arab Emirates for study programmes, internships or graduation projects.
Due to the current situation and disruptions to air travel, they are unable to travel home for the time being. Our staff are in close contact with these students and are closely monitoring developments. Together, we are looking at what students need right now and what kind of support might be helpful. Their safety and wellbeing remain our top priorities.
International travel around mid-April
Around mid-April, a number of our students are scheduled to travel internationally to and from several NHL Stenden Grand Tour locations. (The Grand Tour is NHL Stenden’s international learning programme, where students study at multiple global campuses during their degree.)
We are therefore following international developments carefully and staying in touch with students who have travel plans in the coming weeks. Where needed, we work with students and academic programmes to explore suitable solutions or alternatives, ensuring students can continue their studies and international experiences as smoothly as possible.
Keeping conversations open within our community
At NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, people from many different backgrounds, perspectives and experiences study and work together. Global events, such as the current conflict affecting Iran, can evoke a wide range of emotions and reactions within our community.
We believe it is important that there remains space for respectful conversations, and that students and staff feel safe to share their experiences and perspectives. Especially at times like these, listening to one another and approaching each other with respect matters more than ever.
Looking out for one another
Events in the world can affect students deeply and directly. At NHL Stenden, we believe it’s important to look out for one another and to make space for conversations when times are challenging.
Are you a student who is worried about family, or finding the situation at home difficult? Please reach out to your study adviser, your programme team, or NHL Stenden Student Info.
And for colleagues who notice that a student might be struggling: please help them connect with the right support. Sometimes a small step, like starting a conversation, can make a big difference.
