At the start of each academic year, many student associations at UAntwerp organise welcome activities for new students – including, in some cases, student initiation rituals.
Such initiations are often designed as a way to quickly and fully welcome new students into a group.
Of course, you can also have a great student experience without taking part in an initiation. If you're considering joining one, make sure it's a well-considered choice.
UAntwerp recognises the value of well-organised student initiations, when they are intended as respectful and inclusive rituals of welcome and group integration.
In the city of Antwerp, the Student Charter applies.
On 28 March 2020, the Flemish Minister of Education launched a Flemish Initiation Framework, officially endorsed by all Flemish universities and many student associations.
On 30 March 2021, following consultation with the Student Council, UAntwerp approved an updated version of the Statute of the UAntwerp Student. This document, which applies only to UAntwerp students, includes stricter guidelines than the broader frameworks mentioned above.
One key provision is found in Article 31 of the UAntwerp Student Statute:"Students may only take part in initiation activities organised by student organisations that have signed the applicable charters. The list of recognised organisations is shared with all students at the start of the academic year. All initiation activities must take place in spaces accessible to both the university community and law enforcement authorities."This rule also applies to all events associated with so-called ‘schachtenverkopen’ (initiation sales).
Planning to join an initiation? Make sure your student association is on the list of clubs that have signed the Antwerp Student Charter and the Flemish Initiation Framework.
Welcome Rituals Inspiration Guide
In 2019–2020, the University of Antwerp commissioned an in-depth study into the initiation practices of its student associations. The final report includes key recommendations for organising respectful and inclusive student initiations.
You can find the final report on this page.
In the 2021–2022 academic year, the City of Antwerp, the local higher education institutions, and the Antwerp student community worked together to shape a renewed vision for welcome rituals. That vision is now available in the form of an Inspiration Guide, offering tips and tools for designing meaningful, inclusive initiation moments that respect both tradition and today’s societal context.
This guide aims to ensure that all students start their academic year informed, prepared, and supported. It promotes awareness and leadership in shaping welcome rituals – a must-read for every student association.
Download the Inspiration Guide