Free Dutch lessons for Brussels shop assistants

Non-Dutch-speaking shop assistants in Brussels can now take free Dutch classes, as part of a new initiative from the Huis van het Nederlands aimed at improving language skills in the retail sector.

The programme responds to growing demand from local businesses, particularly in the city centre.

“We’re located here in the heart of Brussels,” said Peter Jolling of the Huis van Het Nederlands.

"Many shops indicate that they want to improve their employees' Dutch - not only for customer service, but also for other reasons. Employees get opportunities to develop themselves and open new doors in the job market.”

For workers such as Maryama, a 30-year-old saleswoman at a clothes store on Rue Neuve, the lessons offer both professional and personal benefits.

“I’m very motivated,” she said. “I’d like to improve my Dutch to aim for a higher position in my career. Many of the customers are Flemish.

"Thanks to these lessons, I'll be able to help customers in Dutch in the future. This training consists of 10 lessons in total.

"I'm going to learn everything I can to be able to help customers, but also to be able to interact with everyone in Dutch."

Organisers hope the classes will strengthen communication in Brussels shops while helping employees access new career opportunities.