Sectorplans are collaborative strategies for higher education and science. There are sectorplans for four domains: social sciences and humanities (SSH-domain), as well as natural sciences, technical sciences, and medical sciences. Starting in 2022, the Dutch government introduced these sectorplans to enhance the quality of higher education and research.

At the end of 2024, then-minister of education Bruins decided to cancel the planned budget cuts to the sectorplans. By maintaining the sectorplans, minister Bruins ensured continued coordination and collaboration between universities and disciplines. Moreover, universities and researchers can persist in contributing to major societal challenges in the Netherlands. The 1,200 researchers contribute positively to the domain by expanding its capacity.

Universities are working together in the Cross-Cutting Theme sectorplan ‘Prosperity, Participation and Citizenship in a Digital World’. This plan came about with the commitment of the SSH-council and the entire field of SSH-faculties. With the sectorplan, we aim to contribute optimally to answers to fundamental questions and challenges for society. In the realisation of this plan, researchers cooperate intensively across disciplines, faculties and universities. Joanne van der Leun is the national coordinator of this SSH-wide sectorplan. You can find the plan starting on page 244 in this document.