VU postpones decision on Earth Sciences until autumn 2025

Although the final decision regarding the reorganisation was initially scheduled for the summer of 2025, concerns expressed by the professional field and national political circles prompted the university to commission an external advisory firm to carry out an exploratory review. This review examined potential options to preserve elements of Earth Sciences education and research, with input from stakeholders in the field. The review produced several possible directions that require further analysis and elaboration, leading to the decision to defer final decision-making until the autumn. As a result, the implementation timeline will also need to be reconsidered.

Preliminary decision remains in place
While the preliminary decision remains unchanged for now, the Executive Board believes the complexity of the situation, combined with input from the University Council and external stakeholders, calls for additional time. “We are aware that once again postponing the decision may cause uncertainty and concern among students and staff,” says Executive Board President Margrethe Jonkman. “We understand how frustrating this is, but we believe it is essential that the final decision is based on a well-informed recommendation from the University Council, carefully considered, and in the best interests of all involved, as well as the discipline itself.”

Taskforce to explore possible adjustments
To properly assess the feasibility of the outcomes of the external review, the Executive Board will appoint a taskforce. This taskforce will be made up of academic and operational experts who will evaluate the new information against the current plan and explore whether adjustments are appropriate. Any proposed changes must be supported by a realistic business case.

The Executive Board expresses its appreciation for the efforts of the Faculty of Science, which has worked with commitment and care in drawing up the proposed reorganisation. Staff and students of the Department of Earth Sciences have been informed about the postponement. For further updates and information on the reorganisation, please visit VU.nl.