The network, which began as an initiative to strengthen reception education, has evolved into a learning network for OKAN coordinators, follow-up coaches, and partners. They exchange expertise, discuss common challenges, and develop initiatives to best guide young non-native speakers. OKAN stands for Reception Classes for Non-Native Speaking Newcomers, where students intensively learn Dutch and are prepared for the transition to regular education.
Over the past ten school years, the Flemish Brabant OKAN schools have supported nearly 6,000 students. The number of students significantly increased from the 2022-2023 school year due to the influx of Ukrainian students, with 897 OKAN students that year. Last school year, 2025-2026, there were 681 students spread across 13 schools, originating from 77 different countries. The largest groups are from Ukraine, Syria, and Afghanistan. Slightly more than half of the students are boys.
The increased influx highlighted the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange. The province of Flemish Brabant supports the network, which assists local authorities, schools, and organizations in promoting Dutch and the integration of residents learning Dutch. Jochen Vrancken, follow-up coach at OKAN KS Leuven, emphasizes the network's value as a place for expertise exchange and confirmation.
The collaboration has resulted in various materials and projects, such as the publications 'Eerste OKAN, nu IK KAN' and 'OKAN-wijs'. The project ‘OKAN in actie’ introduced students to local leisure activities. The annual OKAN Day at the Provincial House brings together about 150 teachers; the next edition is scheduled for January 2027. Since 2025, there has also been a study day for professionals working with ex-OKAN students.
The importance of collaboration remains crucial, especially given challenges like the COVID-19 crisis and the reception of Ukrainian newcomers. Kirsten Verhaegen, follow-up coach at OKAN Sint-Martinuscollege Overijse, describes the network as inspiring and supportive. Sarah de Leest, follow-up coach at OKAN Kompaz Zaventem, points to the network's efficiency in addressing common needs and pooling resources.
Gunther Coppens, deputy for Flemish character, concludes that the OKAN network Flemish Brabant aims to remain a meeting place where expertise, commitment, and collaboration go hand in hand to make a difference for the students.
