Interview met Fractie Abvakabo
| Abvakabo on the University Council | |
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AbvaKabo Group on the University Council “It is vital that employees keep a watch on administrative processes” AbvaKabo Group on the University CouncilThe AbvaKabo Group is one of two groups on the University Council representing the interests of the employees of Tilburg University. In addition to nine university employees, nine students are also members of the University Council. The Executive Board and the University Council groups hold regular talks to discuss current issues regarding policy, organization, administration and budget. The AbvaKabo Group currently has six seats.Dr. Korrie van Helvert is an assistant professor at the Tilburg School of Humanities in the Department of Culture Studies. Dr. Marinus Verhagen is a lecturer at the Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences in the Department of Human Resource Studies. Both have been on the council for many years and would like to stay on for another term of office. “It is vital that employees keep a watch on administrative processes and that they intervene as appropriate. We also have a preventive function: certain matters have to pass through the University Council and that means things are dealt with carefully, explains Korrie. Marinus says: “On top of that, the constantly changing world of the university makes being a member of the council interesting.”
Spending cuts and efficiencyMuch of the forthcoming period of office will be about spending cuts. Korrie: “It is not yet clear how far government cutbacks will go. Another major issue for the University Council is that of cooperation between the service departments and the schools.” Marinus: “An important question here is this: how efficiently is this cooperation organized and what are the tasks of each party? When it comes to restructuring in particular, we keep a close watch to make sure everything is handled carefully. Does the TiU really have too many support staff – if so, where?” The members of the AbvaKabo Group on the University Council assess the plans and proposals of the Executive Board with an open mind. “And,” says Marinus, “we do not allow anyone to influence what we do. We do not adhere to any particular national AbvaKabo policy – instead, we use our own reasoning based on common sense, without consulting the employees every time there is an issue to be discussed.”
Buildings policyPolicy regarding the use of buildings is one of the subjects with which the group is very closely involved. Korrie: “Not enough use is made of the Faculty Club in its current form. We were in favor of its being built, because at the time there were enough funds available. We would like to see new caterers there and to have the building opened up to a broader spectrum of people and groups.” Marinus says, in summary, “In the near future, we are going to continue with the restructuring, putting things on a more professional plane, and the government plans. We hope that things will settle down a bit in the service departments. Internationalization is still a live issue as well, of course, not least as part of the attempt by the TiU to enhance its profile, but should this be a priority in every school?” Korrie adds: “A lot has been invested in internationalization, but without much effect. Perhaps the time has come to put less money in that area?”
VotingIn 2010, during the last University Council elections for employees, the turnout was almost 53%. Marinus: “By voting, you are demonstrating your involvement.” In conclusion, Korrie states: “It is important to vote, because employee participation makes a lot of sense, and high turnout gives us greater legitimacy and helps us act more effectively.”Korrie van Helvert can be reached at: c.m.j.vhelvert@tilburguniversity.edu Marinus Verhagen can be reached at: m.verhagen@tilburguniversity.edu |
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