Limburg employers: 'International talent crucial for healthy labor market'

Press release Nov. 19 - by our partner LWV

Limburg is facing a double challenge: a sharply declining student intake and a rapidly increasing demand for labor. In a region where an aging population strikes harder than elsewhere in the Netherlands, the importance of international talent is greater than ever. Limburg employers stress that international students and employees not only help to fill vacancies, but also bring with them new insights and cultural enrichment.

Diminishing student intake threatens Limburg labor market

The inflow of students to Limburg higher education programs is expected to decline by as much as 43% over the next five years. This is worrisome, especially for technical occupations where there are already an average of 12 jobs open per graduate. "A large part of our workforce comes from courses in the region," says one Limburg employer. If the influx of students to Limburg courses declines, we see that as a major risk.

International talent indispensable for Limburg

A recent survey by the Limburg Employers Association (LWV) shows that over 36% of employers already employ foreign workers who come from Limburg educational institutions, over a third in other words. Employers see international employees not only as a practical solution to personnel shortages, but also as a valuable addition to their organization. "Foreign employees provide new insights and enrich your view of the world," said one of the respondents.

Wide support for retaining international talent

The cabinet is currently working on legislation to better regulate and align the influx of international students with the labor market. While the LWV appreciates this effort, Chairman Ron Coenen stresses the importance of regional customization. "In a border region like Limburg, where 75% of the province's borders are land borders, international students and talents are essential to our economy." As many as 80% of the employers surveyed are willing to sign a petition for the retention of international students and talent in Limburg.

Chamber letter: 'Appropriate customization for Limburg's education structure'

To underline the importance of regional customization, a broad Limburg coalition sent a parliamentary letter today titled 'Appropriate customization for the Limburg educational structure'. This letter emphasizes the importance of a strong regional education policy that is tailored to the specific challenges of Limburg as a shrinkage and border region.

Customization package essential for knowledge infrastructure

Ron Coenen, president of the LWV, explains, "As LWV, we stand for strong education and welcome cooperation between employers and educational institutions. With the results of our survey, we want to emphasize to The Hague that Limburg needs a regional tailor-made package. This is essential for maintaining our knowledge infrastructure and strengthening our business and location climate for companies."

Please contact Ron Coenen, LWV president at voorzitter@lwv.nl or 06 17 67 24 84.