🌍✊ Join the Fight to Protect Dutch Higher Education! ✊🌍

I want to bring your attention to an important issue that affects not just the Netherlands, but all of us who care about education and the future of our society. The new Dutch government has announced a staggering €1 billion in cuts to higher education and science—the largest reduction we've seen in decades. This decision threatens the quality of education, the well-being of staff, and the future of countless students.

As we face global challenges that require well-educated individuals to tackle complex problems, these cuts will only exacerbate existing issues like increased overtime, deteriorating working conditions, and the discontinuation of vital study programs. The "Internationalization in balance" law could also drive away international staff, further weakening the educational landscape.

We cannot stand by while the Dutch cabinet pledges to address societal problems yet simultaneously undermines the very institutions that are essential for solving them. Strong colleges, universities, and research institutions are crucial for overcoming challenges like the housing shortage and teacher shortages.

I urge you to stand in solidarity with Dutch students, educational staff, and society at large by signing this petition: Stop Cuts on Dutch Higher Education. Every signature counts and sends a powerful message to the government to reverse these devastating measures.

Let’s work together to ensure a brighter future for education and research! 📚💪 #StopTheCuts #HigherEducation #Solidarity

change.org/p/stop-cuts-on-dutc…

Stop cuts on Dutch higher education!

^{Hedde Zeijlstra (Change.org)}

I heard a discussion at #FOSSY24 regarding "FOSS outside of corporations," referring to the origin of the Free and #OpenSource software movement, beginning with hobbyists and foundations.

Thought I would also include the early contributions to FOSS from and through #HIgherEducation. Many foundational projects have their roots in #HigherEd.