Flanders has officially launched a new platform aimed at fostering the integration of new residents of the region.
The ikdoemee.be platform was launched in Halle on Tuesday by the Agentschap Integratie en Inburgering (Integration and Citizenship Education Agency).
Among other things, it provides new residents with information about events and activities where they can practise their Dutch and expand their social and professional networks.
Since October, local administrations have been able to register events and activities on ikdoemee.be. In a month and a half, 330 activities and 105 organisations have been listed.
“These activities are part of the integration process, but can also be followed after obtaining the integration certificate,” says Flemish Interior Minister Gwendolyn Rutten, whose portfolio also includes Integration and Equal Opportunities.
Activities are divided into six categories based on their objectives, including helping newcomers to learn Dutch, to meet new people, or to make friends.
Other categories include teaching newcomers something new, helping them to become volunteers, and preparing them for work.
Icons help prospective participants to see what level of Dutch is required to participate in each activity.
The platform is part of a broader campaign under which the Agentschap Integratie en Inburgering also organises meet-up days between integrators, volunteers, local governments and local organisations.
