Tanya Kruger, a student from the Department of Afrikaans and Dutch, German and French at the University of the Free State, had the privilege to attend the 2025 Zomercursus in Ghent, Belgium, after completing her second CNaVT exam in May 2025.

The Zomercursus is a two-week course from the 3^rd to the 16^th of August 2025. It is presented by the Dutch Language Union (Taalunie) and Ghent University. The course broadens students’ academic knowledge and Dutch language skills. In addition, students are exposed to the culture of Flanders and the Netherlands. Lecturers from Belgium and the Netherlands teach on the programme to ensure students experience the language used in both countries. The course consists of four main tracks: media and politics, art and literature, business and literary translation, and didactics and linguistics.

During the two weeks, Tanya participated in various activities, from attending didactics and linguistics sessions to exploring Brussels and learning more about its attractions.

Tanya reflects that the two weeks were filled with knowledge, memories and new friendships. “I remember a few of us chatting over lunch about the major differences in our cultures and languages and our similarities. I was able to see the value in diversity and have developed a deeper appreciation for it. Opportunities like this don’t come along every day. I am incredibly grateful that I was able to attend this programme.”