Ghent pilot project helps foreign-trained caregivers enter Flemish healthcare sector
The first results of the 'Samen voor Zorg' (Together for Care) project were presented at the 'Het Heiveld' residential care centre in Ghent on Thursday. The project allows newcomers with foreign care diplomas to work part-time while earning a Flemish qualification and learning Dutch.
Samen voor Zorg tackles two major challenges at once: the persistent staff shortage in the Flemish care sector and the underused potential of international talent. Many newcomers arrive in Flanders with healthcare degrees and experience, but face high barriers such as lengthy diploma recognition procedures, strict language requirements, and a complex landscape of regulations.
Through the project, participants with a foreign diploma in nursing or medicine can work part-time in residential care centres while following intensive Dutch language training tailored to the care sector. At the same time, they follow a shortened study path to obtain a Flemish nursing diploma, supported by guidance from partners in both the care and education sectors.
Ten vacancies filled
So far, ten participants have started in six residential care centres, with more applications pending. One of the participants, a nurse from the Philippines, said she waited four years for recognition of her diploma, only to be rejected. "Thanks to this project, I’ve now been working in this care centre for three months," she added.
"I think it is crucial that newcomers can use their diploma and experience to find a job that matches their skills and ambitions,” said Flemish minister for Welfare and Integration Hilde Crevits, who visited the care centre on Thursday.
"That's why it's important that their qualifications and competences are validated quickly and qualitatively, and they should have the chance to learn Dutch intensively, including on the job."
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM
Related news
