Why internationalisation?
There are several reasons for RUAS to focus on internationalisation in its policy. We will describe and explain the reasons here.
Strategic focus Internationalisation is identified as a strategic focus area and one of the two binding elements of the university-wide identity in the Strategic Agenda 2016-2025 and our Work Plan, alongside with the economic development of the Rotterdam Harbour and Rotterdam South. From this regional perspective, RUAS formalised its approach to internationalisation in a conceptual framework called the Internationalisation Triangle. The international dimension of our professional study programmes is implemented from the perspectives of the three societal issues high on the development agenda of the Rotterdam Metropolitan Area (RMA). They are identified as RUAS’ overarching policy objectives for internationalisation: Inclusion, Intercultural Competence and Superdiversity.
Regional diversity as an asset Rotterdam (population 651.000) has the highest percentage of foreigners from non-industrialised nations in The Netherlands. They form a large part of Rotterdam's multi-ethnic and multicultural diversity. 50,3% of the population are of non-Dutch origin or have at least one parent born abroad. In addition, dozens of well-known international companies chose Rotterdam for their headquarters, as it is one of the main centres of the world shipping industry. This high level of diversity is a socio-economic given of the Rotterdam Metropolitan Area (RMA) and a key characteristic of RUAS’ approach to internationalisation. Our task is to implement this diversity, use it as an asset, and to empower students and staff to thrive and excel within an inclusive environment.
Inclusive at heart RUAS educates its super diverse student population to become reflective professionals capable of making valuable contributions. They are being prepared for our increasingly globalised society and professional field. Whether our graduates choose to pursue national or international careers, they must be prepared to work in a diverse setting and rapidly changing global environment. We have to be inclusive at heart to achieve that. All students and staff should feel at home, welcome and assessed with high expectations. RUAS continues to offer everyone the best possible development of their talents; we are dedicated to an inclusive classroom and work experience. All of our staff members are experienced in conducting a dialogue with students and colleagues about inclusion and exclusion. Lecturers are being facilitated in developing an appropriate curriculum and creating an inclusive learning environment in their classes.
Everything aligned This vision on internationalisation is thus based upon consultation with internal and external stakeholders in RMA to ensure alignment with RUAS’ societal mission and the fulfillment of the social contract. Through its HUB Internationalisation, peer learning activities and active policy advice provision, RUAS sees to continuous development of its vision. This takes place in co-creation with its 13 institutes and over 100 study programmes, each with an individual identity and decentralised vision on internationalisation.