With pride and pleasure, the VU-NT2 team looked back on its rich history at VU together with former employees, VU colleagues and relations. What started in 1963 as a language practicum for VU students has grown into a thriving education and expertise centre with language courses, teacher training, learning resources development and research. Our inspiring guests included Jan Hulstijn, Marijke Huizinga, Mira Maletic, Milka Yemane, Nafiss Nia and Susan Lêgene.
Mira Maletic (Director of Operations Faculty of Humanities) gave us an insight into her own language biography, in which love of reading plays an important role. She emphasized that mastery of Dutch is the key to a new world. Susan Lêgene (Dean Faculty of Humanities) reflected on the humble and confident nature of VU-NT2. She liked how NT2 teachers always ensure a safe learning environment by keeping politics out of the classroom.
Over drinks afterwards, we all reminisced, caught up and made new connections. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to this special day, not forgetting day chairman Fadoua Alaoui, panellists Janneke Waelen, Samir Achbab, Amany Shalha, Reham Zakhari and Sylvia de Groot Heupner and our anniversary committee consisting of Annemarie Nuwenhoud, Saskia Ligthart, Laura Arnesano, Rachel Zuilhof, Daphne van der Knaap and Wilma Elsing. On to the next 60 years!