Ninove (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Babbelonie, a project by Avansa, helps people learn Dutch and make friends. After Forza Ninove cut funding, they started a crowdfunding campaign and received over 40 donations. Coordinator Koen Van de Merckt highlights its importance for 25 weekly participants.

Babbelonie is a project by Avansa that helps people practice speaking Dutch and make friends every week. Joining is free, but there are professional supervisors to help. Recently, Forza Ninove announced they would stop funding Babbelonie, and this was confirmed at the city council. To keep the project running, a crowdfunding campaign was started. Koen Van de Merckt, who coordinates Avansa Vlaamse Ardennen-Dender, said many people have shown interest in helping, with over 40 donations already received, which is very encouraging.

How will Ninove’s Babbelonie project survive after funding cuts?

Babbelonie is a project that helps people learn Dutch and connect with others. The money raised will be used for things like paying coaches and providing materials. About 25 people join each week. The city council of Ninove decided to cut funding, claiming it was part of a review, but Van de Merckt says they were not consulted about it. He believes Babbelonie is not only important for learning the language but also for helping people build friendships and understand each other better. It creates a safe environment for those who don’t speak Dutch to learn without the fear of making mistakes.

According to Koen Van de Merckt, the city council’s decision to cut funding for Babbelonie is a big issue. He warns that without financial support, they might have to stop the project in January. While they can continue for now, the future is uncertain. Van de Merckt believes they need ongoing support and wants the city council to discuss solutions. For now, Babbelonie will remain active, and more people in the community are showing support, highlighting the importance of these projects for respect and equality.