The new Social Agenda by Nij Begun aims to bring hope and improvements to Groningen and North Drenthe, especially areas affected by earthquakes. Quartermaster Henk Nijboer presented the plan, which focuses on creating opportunities for children, reducing poverty, and improving overall quality of life.
Key Focus Areas
The agenda is built around three main goals:
Community Spirit and Local Culture
Efforts will be made to strengthen community ties by supporting local associations, sports clubs, and neighbourhood centres. Funding will also go toward promoting the unique culture of Groningen and Drenthe. Residents can apply for budgets to organize social, cultural, and sports activities.
Better Education for Children
Primary schools will provide more lessons to help children develop. All students will get at least two extra hours of class per week, with some schools offering up to six additional hours. These lessons will focus on music, sports, and personal development. The plan also includes mental health support for children.
Addressing Long-Term Problems
To combat issues like generational poverty, debt, and low literacy, multi-year programs will be launched. These will focus on teaching reading and digital skills, supporting people with debts, and helping students stay in school.
Funding and Timeline
Over the next 30 years, €3.5 billion will be available for these initiatives. This includes €100 million annually for social and economic development in Groningen and North Drenthe. An additional €1.65 billion will be spent over the next 10 years to insulate homes in these areas.
Mixed Reactions
While many see the plan as a step forward, there are some concerns. Politicians and local leaders largely praised the agenda, calling it a significant investment for the future. State Secretary Eddie van Marum highlighted the importance of helping children who have suffered due to the earthquakes, and other officials believe the long-term focus will finally bring lasting change.
However, critics like law student Kiet Winter argue the plans are too vague, especially regarding support for young adults. Others worry about bureaucratic delays or feel the agenda misses the mark by not addressing immediate earthquake recovery needs.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite some scepticism, many residents and leaders feel optimistic. Alderman Annalies Usmany-Dallinga believes this plan will help Groningen catch up to the rest of the Netherlands in terms of prosperity. Mayor Cora-Yfke Sikkema emphasized the focus on investing in youth, saying the 30-year plan allows for real growth and talent development.
