‘The Nour project was started about ten years ago. The general feeling was that there are many differences between the Western and the Arabic world, that we don’t really understand each other and that people from both cultures have many misconceptions about one another - and so AIESEC started this project,’ describes Teun Hulman, who is in charge of Nour on behalf of AIESEC Twente.
‘Nour is about a mutual process of bringing the cultures closer, embracing similarities and creating understanding,’ continues Hulman. If you decide to apply and are selected for participating in Nour, you will choose a preferred project and you will be sent to a country in the region of Middle East and North Africa, where you will live for 6-8 weeks. ‘Some of the involved countries are Oman, Yemen or Morocco. Students are never sent to unsafe locations,’ stresses Hulman.
Dive into the Arabic culture
How does it all work? The Nour project consists of three phases: the Preparation Programme, the Project abroad and the Reintegration Programme. During the Preparation, you will receive several lectures and workshops about the culture and language of your destination. Afterwards you will be sent abroad for a cultural exchange, working on a voluntary project of your choosing. The projects are mainly developmental or cultural, they may include working at SOS Children’s Villages or raising awareness about green energy or women rights. The main goal behind the project is to get acquainted with the Arab culture and work with locals.
When you finish your time abroad, the Reintegration Programme starts. This phase is meant for sharing your experiences and gained knowledge with others in the Netherlands. This can be done through talks at schools or by presenting photos and videos from your trip.
Info Evening at the UT
Are you intrigued? Students can now enroll for the Nour project twice a year. They can either join the winter tour, taking place in January and February, or try out for the summer tour in July and August. Right now, students can apply for the winter Nour Project. ‘We are looking for older students, second study year and higher, because we know that it is an intense experience that requires effort and motivation,’ clarifies Teun Hulman.
You can learn more about Nour at the Info Evening taking place tomorrow, the 5th of October, at 8 p.m. in the Global Lounge (in Bastille). You can also find all necessary information regarding the application process and other details on the AIESEC website.
