Equity and Inclusion Programme

The Equity and Inclusion Programme is an initiative by Maastricht University to promote equal opportunities and inclusivity. It collaborates with external partners to fund various equality projects. A key focus of the programme is offering scholarships that provide disadvantaged youth with access to education and equal opportunities in the job market. These scholarships help cover tuition fees and offer additional guidance and support.

In our society, young people should be given a fair chance to participate and develop to their full potential. Despite the widely shared ideal of equality, there is increasing inequality in our society. The global crises have only widened this gap. Inequality of opportunity can also be seen in education: studying is not for everyone. This is partly due to various social and financial barriers.

Young people with fewer opportunities suffer in the labour market. They are less likely to have a basic qualification and therefore find work less often or end up in jobs that offer little security and development opportunities. Having a basic qualification is also decisive when it comes to a person’s future, health and housing.

“We are working globally towards a sustainable world, with a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity, both in our workplace and in society. Supporting the Equity and Inclusion Programme aligns perfectly with our societal goal of contributing to equal educational opportunities for young people.”
Equans Zuid-Nederland | Burney Kreugel, Managing Director

Students for Equality

As part of this programme, the Students for Equality project has been launched with a powerful new mission: to raise funds to cover tuition fees for international students who dream of studying at UM but cannot afford to do so.

Together with an enthusiastic team of students, they aim to raise awareness around this issue and encourage donations. The members of Students for Equality work to create awareness, develop creative initiatives, and fundraise to make education at UM accessible to all young people, regardless of their background, gender identity, or socio-economic situation.

The Students for Equality team is made up of three students from Egypt, Turkey, and the Netherlands, currently studying at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and the Faculty of Law. Their diverse backgrounds bring a range of ideas and perspectives, which only strengthens the team.

Are you interested in joining this initiative or would you like to receive more information? Click here.