No more alcohol or evening programme allowed during Eurekaweek

Eurekaweek can continue for now, but in a much more watered-down version. Contrary to expectations, the cabinet did not impose a complete ban on organising introductory weeks, but it did impose additional measures.

No alcohol may be consumed during the week. Of course, the first years must all stay one and a half metres apart, and the programme must end by 10.00 pm. The cabinet also wants as many activities as possible to take place online. There is a total ban on initiations and introductions at student associations. This was announced by Prime Minster Mark Rutte and Minister Hugo de Jonge on Thursday evening during an additional press conference.

Optimistic

Eurekaweek Chair, Sander Doude van Troostwijk, is nevertheless optimistic that most of the planned programme can go ahead. “I certainly still see possibilities for a physical programme. We will have to cancel the evening programme and will probably have to distribute the events even better.” But with just a few adjustments, Doude van Troostwijk is convinced that it is possible to adhere completely to the cabinet’s new conditions. He also thinks it’s almost impossible to revamp the entire programme. “It all starts in just a week!”

According to a spokesperson from Rotterdam’s Mayor, Ahmed Aboutaleb, the Municipality, Erasmus University, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences and the Eurekaweek organisers will be holding discussions on Friday. The aim in any event is for a ‘shorter introductory week’. “There will certainly be real changes to the programme,” stated the spokesperson.