Staff and student well-being and also the quality of education are themes that, for the Central Works Council (COR), are central to the university's policy-making. 

This is because there are an increasing number of developments that can put pressure on job satisfaction, and thus the well-being of employees, and on the quality of education. We think for example of the growth in the number of (international) students, the shortage of housing and the still growing work pressure among employees. In the past year, the COR has therefore, as always, actively worked to improve this. 

What have we achieved?

The new teachers' policy, which came about in close consultation with the Executive Board and UCLO, has, for example, resulted in more teachers being hired on permanent contracts. This allows teachers to invest in further developing their teaching skills without the pressure of a finite contract. The COR is also closely involved in the development of a new vision on abstention because of sick leave at the UvA, a vision that will eventually lead to the hiring of a new occupational health and safety service. Finally, the COR is pleased to see that the UvA has become a frontrunner in the Netherlands in terms of social safety policy, a policy developed partly at the COR's insistence. Naturally, we will remain closely involved in this theme as well. For all these topics, the glass is half full or half empty: there is plenty to do in the new year.

Are there themes that touch on employee welfare or educational quality and the position of researchers that should be discussed at the COR table? Be sure to let us know at cor@uva.nl!