Who are the people who study and work at TU Delft? We meet them in Humans of TU Delft where they talk about their work or other activities. As a member of ChristenUnie, master’s student Sytse Alkema believes that all members of society matter. As a candidate for Delft city council, he hopes to put his beliefs into action for the local community.
Sytse Alkema: "This is a city with a lot of bikes and safety is getting worse." (Photo: Heather Montague)
“I’m doing a master’s degree in geo-engineering (CiTG) and I’m almost finished. I just sent the first version of my final report to the committee and Tuesday I’ll have my green light meeting. With the elections on Wednesday, it’s a really busy time for me. But I think it’s a great combination to work in a technical field and also do something for society and give something back.
I always liked politics and have been a member of the ChristenUnie since I was around 19 years old. I got more involved about a year and a half ago, and now I’m fourth on the list for the Delft city council elections.
‘I want to work on the issue of bike traffic in Delft’
I am a Christian so that’s where it started. I think ChristenUnie is in politics to find solutions. It’s not only that we want the most votes, but we’re always looking to work together to find solutions that benefit all people. I think it’s important to be a representative of all people, not only the ones who voted for you.
ChristenUnie itself is mainly focused on taking care of the elderly and on sustainability. Personally I want to work on the issue of bike traffic in Delft. This is a city with a lot of bikes and safety is getting worse. I want to find ways to improve that. I also want to look at improving public transportation. That’s related to our vision that everyone should be able to go anywhere and not everyone has a car.
I think we represent a good middle point on the political spectrum. We think a lot about responsibility and that you should make something of your life, but at the same time it’s important to care about the needy people in society. Our Christian beliefs mean that everyone is important, everyone should have a place in society.”
This Humans is part of an election series on TU Delft students and employees who are active in local politics. Local elections are held on March 21st. Also read about students Timo Tӧns, Michelle Corten, Stijn de Vreede, Vincent van Roon, Daan Gorsse and TU-employee Leon Hombergen who are also running for city council.
- Do you want to be featured in Humans of TU Delft? Or do you know someone with a good story to tell? Send us an e-mail at humansoftudelft@gmail.com
Heather Montague / Freelance writer
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