Nobody should be alone on Christmas. Based on this idea, the university and the university of applied sciences are linking students to employees. Colleagues who have a place available at their Christmas dinner table invite an (international) student to join. Rector Han van Krieken is setting a good example.
For some students, especially those from abroad, celebrating Christmas together with others is not at all self-evident. The trip back to their parents is often expensive and in any case, during this time of corona, mostly out of the question. Newcomers in Nijmegen, however, often don’t know that many people yet. The risk of a lonely Christmas looms large.
Takeaway dinner
…But it needn’t be so, according to the Han University of Applied Sciences. Together with Radboud University, HAN is launching the initiative to link employees who have a spot available at their table to students looking for company at the end of December. The municipality of Nijmegen is contributing by making ten vouchers available for a takeaway dinner, which can be redeemed at restaurants in the city. HAN and the university are also giving away ten vouchers.
‘People are on their own more than ever right now’
Alex Roomer, head of student support at Radboud University and involved in the initiative, explains that especially right now there is interest in this idea. “People are on their own more than ever right now,” he says. “But they should be able to be together on Christmas.”
Corona measures
During any get-togethers that hopefully happen this month, prevailing corona measures must be observed. Employees may therefore only welcome students if they still have a place at the table according to the guidelines. “you are currently allowed to invite a maximum of three people into your home.”
Roomer says that the idea is being well received. He can’t yet say anything about an exact number of registrations, but Rector Han van Krieken of Radboud University has indicated that he will open his door to students. HAN Chairman of the Board Rob Verhofstad will also receive students at home.
Are you alone this Christmas, or is there a spot available at your table? Click here to find out how to register.
