A large part of the Netherlands is still unaware of what Npuls is, even though the programme has been running since 2023, including at the University of Amsterdam (UvA).

It's time to delve into the topic through five key questions with UvA trailblazers Angela Vierveijzer and Frank Benneker. Together, they discuss the importance of Npuls for vocational education (mbo), higher professional education (hbo), and academic education (wo) – and by extension, for the UvA itself.

1. What is Npuls?

Npuls is a large-scale programme designed by and for all public vocational schools (mbo), universities of applied sciences (hbo), and research universities (wo) in the Netherlands. Its aim is to foster knowledge sharing and development in the field of digital innovation within secondary and higher education. The programme will run until 2031 and is funded through the National Growth Fund programme for innovations with significant societal impact and relevance.

'The rapid pace of societal changes demands a swift transformation of the education sector. This means we must actively develop and adjust,' explains the team. 'Through Npuls, all vocational schools, universities of applied sciences, and research universities will work together in the coming years to build a future-proof and innovative education sector.'

2. How might students or staff notice Npuls?

Step-by-step, new digital possibilities are becoming available at the UvA for students and staff. These could include AI applications or access to digital educational materials.

Changes for UvA staff

• Sector-wide agreements and standards: These will allow quicker responses to new digital developments and educational needs. To support this, events such as meetings, workshops, and seminars will be organised.
• Participation in projects and programmes: UvA staff can actively contribute to Npuls developments and initiatives. This could be through expert teams or by working on Npuls products via secondments.

Changes for (prospective) UvA students

• Active involvement: Students will play a role in designing and providing feedback, often via student organisations like ISO and LSVb, or through the UvA’s own Central Student Council (CSR).

Upcoming projects

1. A new Studielink: This will serve not only higher education but also vocational education (mbo) and Professional Education (OvP).
2. eduID rollout: A digital identity for education, similar to DigiD, available at all institutions.
3. Eduwallet exploration: A personal platform where students can store all learning and development achievements. This digital portfolio will be accessible anytime, anywhere.
4. Algorithm register project: This initiative aims to map the algorithms used in education, identifying risks, enhancing transparency, and improving data management. By understanding and refining algorithms, individuals can gain insight into their usage, and the education sector can benefit from more transparent practices.

3. What is the importance of Npuls for the UvA?

'Npuls provides the UvA with opportunities to make higher education more accessible and inclusive. By removing digital barriers and obstacles, it becomes easier for students to access higher education.'

'The Npuls programme is divided into various topics, and at the UvA, we will primarily focus on Study Data & AI, Agile Organised Education, and Centers for Teaching and Learning in the upcoming period. Of course, we will also keep an eye on developments in other areas.'

4. Which three components within Npuls are currently the most urgent?

'The responsible use of AI in education, new developments and possibilities for digital assessments, eduID (part of the new national sector services), and ensuring easy access to the digital services of Npuls and the educational institutions where the student is studying.'

5. When is Npuls a success?

'When the institutions have united in addressing the challenges of digitalisation in education. When students and teachers have access to state-of-the-art digital tools. And when they are able and competent to use this technology wisely and reliably.'

'Especially now, in times of significant societal change, it is important not to stand still. But in times of contraction and financial uncertainty, it is difficult for an institution to achieve this alone. By working together across sectors, we can make significant progress. If, in 2032, at the end of the programme, we can conclude that we have achieved this — then it will be a success!'