For a quarter of a century, the Leuven OKAN leisure activities program has been guiding young newcomers in discovering the city's recreational offerings. To mark this milestone, the city is organizing a special OKAN-walk on Monday, October 5th. This walk will take staff, partners, volunteers, and supporters past schools and organizations vital to the program's success.
OKAN, which stands for reception classes for young non-native speakers, offers extracurricular activities alongside its educational programs. The OKAN leisure activities program introduces young people to various recreational pursuits like sports and culture, and assists them in finding their own place within Leuven's social fabric.
Youth Alderman Katrien Vermijlen emphasizes the importance of this guidance: “Newcomers don't always know how to find a sports club or youth movement. Our youth workers provide this support. These activities not only offer meaningful leisure time and stability but also help young people make friends, practice their Dutch, and feel increasingly at home in Leuven.”
The program features a weekly diverse range of activities, from indoor and field football to swimming lessons, cricket, and cultural excursions. Young people can also engage with youth movements, receive assistance in finding holiday or volunteer work, and even enroll in an animator training course.
“By helping them find holiday work or volunteer commitments, we give young people the opportunity to actively participate in Leuven's leisure life and discover and utilize their talents,” adds Katrien Vermijlen.
The celebratory walk, named 'krOKANtje', begins at 9 AM at Leuven station. Participants will visit key locations such as the OKAN schools, JH Sojo, De Nomade, and Sporthal Rijschool, where they will engage in interactive games. Lunch will be provided by the youth services and the sandwich shop Den Travak. The walk concludes around 4 PM.
