Equal compensation for MBO and HBO students

RAI Amsterdam is setting a new standard. In a step towards more inclusivity and equality, the event and conference organisation announces that the internship compensation for both MBO and HBO students will be equalised. All job applications will also be anonymous from this month onwards. With these measures, RAI Amsterdam hopes to contribute to a more inclusive labour market and demonstrates its commitment to fair appreciation for all interns, regardless of their level of education.

While most companies base their compensation on the level of education, RAI Amsterdam consciously opts for an inclusive approach. "We believe that all interns, regardless of their education, make valuable contributions to our company. Equalising the internship compensation reflects our appreciation for this commitment," says Bianca van den Oever, Manager HR at RAI Amsterdam.

Supported by politics
The measures are intended for more inclusivity and diversity within the Amsterdam organisation. With anonymous job applications, meaning applying without a name and photo, candidates will be assessed purely on the skills. And the revaluation of the compensation for interns fits in seamlessly with the vision of alderman Sofyan Mbarki, who recently emphasised how essential skilled workers are for our economy: "Without MBO students, our economy would look very different. It is good that we realise how important this target group is and that students become aware of their valuable contribution to society." (Source: AT5)

RAI Amsterdam will publish the new policy on October 1, World Diversity Day. The decision follows internal evaluations of the value of internships. "We see interns as full-fledged team members who bring innovation and creativity," says Van den Oever. "Fair treatment and appreciation of interns at every level contributes to their development and to the success of our company. Moreover, we hope that this step will ultimately contribute to a more inclusive labour market."

Impact on interns
The increase in the internship allowance for MBO students to €750 per month ensures a level playing field. Traditionally, internship compensation for MBO students has been lower than for HBO students, while the responsibilities are comparable. This new measure makes RAI Amsterdam an attractive internship location for students at all levels, increasing the diversity and quality of the intern pool. RAI Amsterdam invites other companies to follow this example and reconsider the way interns are compensated. "We hope that this decision will have a positive impact on the well-being of interns and that it will inspire others to put equal pay high on the agenda."