17/06/2026
“As ombudsofficer, I contribute to a safe and positive study and working environment. Students and employees can contact me to report unclear regulations, social safety concerns, unfair treatment, or conflicts with the university. In some cases, situations outside the campus may also be relevant if they affect someone’s studies or work.
I begin with a conversation: an opportunity for you to tell your story. I explore the context, refer you to a study advisor or confidential advisor where appropriate, and look for any underlying patterns. When it becomes clear that an issue is structural in nature, I can assess what intervention may be required to reach a resolution. As ombudsofficer, I can conduct internal investigations and raise concerns about wrongdoing or organisational shortcomings at higher levels within the university, with the aim of bringing about change. Mediation between parties over a cup of coffee—what I like to call a “solution coffee”—is also one of the options.
I am regularly asked about the difference between a confidential advisor and an ombudsofficer. A confidential advisor stands alongside the person raising the concern and provides support and advice. As ombudsofficer, I am impartial and independent. My focus is on addressing wrongdoing and resolving obstacles in the organisation’s procedures and practices. I find it rewarding when people are able to reconnect and when the organisation is challenged to make lasting improvements.
My message to students and employees is simple: do not live with a problem for too long. Please get in touch via [email protected], indicate whether you are a student or a member of staff, specify the faculty involved, and provide some context for your concern. Everything will be treated in confidence. The sooner you raise an issue, the greater the chance that it can be addressed before the situation escalates.”
- Aukje Verstegen, Ombudsofficer Radboud University
