The Hanze Student’s Association likes the idea
There is a large shortage of study places in Groningen . An interest group for students of the Hanze University Groningen is now launching a special initiative to reduce that shortage, and whilst it may seem like a joke, the idea for temporary study places in the middle of the Grote Markt is very serious. As reported by the Groninger Internet Courant, a petition has been set up to gather support for the idea.
Hanze Studentenbelangen Association (HSV) wants study places for students in the middle of the Grote Markt, prior to exam periods. If temporary events such as a fun fair or ice rink can be organized on the Grote Markt, ‘why shouldn’t the market be temporarily renamed a study place’, the association argues. The HSV is now calling upon students to sign a special “Pop-up study places on the Grote Markt” petition.
According to the Hanze Studentenbelangen Vereniging, libraries are overcrowded in the libraries during and before the exam periods, resulting in a shortage of study places.
“We are thinking in terms of opportunities for Groningen as much as the need for study places. The appearance and disappearance of study places in the middle of the Grote Markt fits into the character of a young, innovative student city and, during peak periods, and meets the increased demand for study places ”, says HSV fraction member Saskia Van Niekerk.
“A number of times a year, part of the Grote Markt is the scene of temporary events such as the fun fair or an ice rink. Similar to these temporary destinations, the HSV also wants to make the heart of Groningen the setting for students to study, four times per year”, the association reports.
“The Grote Markt is seen as the living room of Groningen, where throughout the year becomes visible what our city stands for. Studying is inextricably linked to our show-off. This is a unique opportunity to show it in our shared living room! ” said Van Niekerk.
The petition “Pop-up study places on the Grote Markt” is now online. In the coming days, the HSV hopes to find as many supporters as possible among Stadjers and students and then submit the petition to the Groningen city council.
Image via Wikimedia user JoachinKohlerBremen. License here
