Stichting voor Vluchteling-Studenten UAF

The UAF story – Good for refugees and the Netherlands In 1948, Dutch universities reached out to fifty Czech students and teachers on the run. This led to the creation of the University Assistance Fund (UAF), which has since helped tens of thousands of refugees make a new start. Education as the key The UAF supports refugee students, professionals and scientists in their studies, retraining and access to the labour market. Personal guidance, financial support and networks help them utilise their talents. This is good for refugees and the Netherlands. Take Homa, who fled Afghanistan with her son. She learned Dutch, obtained two masters degrees and now works as an analyst at a large bank. Or Tadele, a refugee scientist from Ethiopia, who is doing PhD research on sustainable food transition at Wageningen University & Research thanks to the UAF. Impact and innovation The UAF continues to develop in order to optimally respond to current needs. For example, we support refugee healthcare professionals in obtaining their BIG registration and we help women through the empowerment programme ‘From Flight to Power’. We also support scientists so that they continue to use their expertise. Win-win for everyone Our ageing labour market requires talent. By giving refugees opportunities, they strengthen sectors such as healthcare and technology and bring new insights to companies. A shared future Since 1948, the UAF, together with educational institutions, companies and governments, has been building a society in which no one is left behind. Every year, we support thousands of people. What we do is more than just offering help – it is an investment in talent and the future of all of us.