The Future Belongs to the Younger Generation!

In The Hague, politicians debate national education budgets. In our region, however, we know one thing for sure: education is not something to cut back on. If there is one thing that is a fundamental part of a positive future for people and planet, it is quality education for the next generation.

Fewer Cuts, But Still Significant Reductions

This morning, we read some cautiously positive news: the government is somewhat limiting the extensive cuts to education. And that is much needed. At institutions such as the HAN University of Applied Sciences, we have already seen the consequences of reduced budgets, particularly for teaching staff. Yet despite €750 million in cuts being reversed, education still faces a total reduction of €1.25 billion.

Collaborating with Educational Institutions

Fortunately, many businesses and entrepreneurs are taking matters into their own hands. At EKI, we genuinely enjoy supporting young people and introducing them to the business world in an informal and approachable setting. Over recent years, we have done this regularly.

For example, through Lifeport@, we collaborate with a wide range of organisations in and around Nijmegen, including HAN University of Applied Sciences, Radboud University, ROC Nijmegen, Citadel College, JINC, Procollege, and many others.

Hands-On Learning Experiences

We show pupils and students what we do at EKI and the Papierfabriek, and how we strive to do this in the most sustainable and innovative way possible. Lars regularly shares his story about production waste and the CSRD report, Pim gives insights into our production department, while Thomas and Bart introduce young people to the customer journey and HR at EKI.

We also introduce them to the Papierfabriek Nijmegen. For example, media design students from ROC Nijmegen, guided by Chantal and Tijn, worked on finding the perfect imagery for their own clothing brand.

We notice that these visits are not only educational but also genuinely enjoyable for young people — a valuable, practical addition to classroom learning. An added bonus: we ourselves gain great satisfaction from helping young people in this way. A true win-win.

These company visits provide young people with valuable real-world experience to complement their theoretical lessons. They discover what working life looks like in practice — and it turns out to be not only educational, but also a lot of fun. For us as a company, contributing to the future of young people in this way is incredibly rewarding.

A Call to Politicians

Although we try to make a difference through our own efforts, it remains concerning that education continues to face billions in budget cuts. That is why we are making an appeal to The Hague: reverse the €1.25 billion in cuts and invest in young people instead.

Because only by investing in quality education can we build a sustainable and positive future for everyone.