Together for equal educational opportunities: support the GO! Atheneum Caroline Pauwels

The renovated GO! Atheneum Caroline Pauwels in Sint-Jans-Molenbeek officially opened on August 29, 2025. The celebratory event highlighted how the school not only lives up to its name—in honor of former VUB rector Caroline Pauwels—but also incorporates her pedagogical vision as a living foundation in its operations. The unveiling of classrooms named after prominent scientists made the project tangible and inspiring for students, parents, and the wider school community.

The VUB Alumni Association (OSB-VUB) has been committed to supporting young people from disadvantaged families for years. Following previous initiatives—such as clothing and toy drives—OSB-VUB has consciously chosen a new and ambitious goal this academic year: supporting students at the GO! Atheneum Caroline Pauwels in Sint-Jans-Molenbeek.

Why this project?

The Atheneum is located in a particularly diverse and socially vulnerable neighborhood. More than 80% of students grow up in families where school costs are a significant burden. Think of laptops, books, excursions, and even basic necessities. Yet, this is a school that, like the VUB, stands for talent development, social engagement, and opportunities for everyone.

Our goal: “GO! for €15,000”

Specifically, we aim to directly support 80 second-year students during the 2025-2026 academic year. The school will receive €200 for each student, which will then be deducted from their school bill. This lowers the threshold and ensures that families are less burdened by the additional school costs.

But there's more: students commit to actively participating in school life. This means limiting the number of unauthorised absences, adhering to the school fee repayment plan (if any), and following the advice of the class council. This way, we encourage responsibility, involvement, and future prospects.

The ideas of Caroline Pauwels

It's no coincidence that the school bears the name of Caroline Pauwels, the former rector of the VUB and a source of inspiration to many. She firmly believed that education is the most powerful tool for breaking down inequality. Her optimism, her advocacy for a welcoming society, and her faith in the creativity of young people formed the core of her commitment.

Caroline often emphasized that we shouldn't just impart knowledge to young people, but also hope, imagination, and opportunities. That's precisely what we aim to achieve with this project: giving young people the means to develop their talents, encouraging them to pursue their dreams, and making them feel like they belong – regardless of their background. We want to give them every opportunity to progress to higher education, and who knows, we might even see them on our campus one day.

"Education is the key to freedom and equality. Every young person deserves the same opportunities, regardless of background or resources." — Caroline Pauwels

Highlight: Benefit event on Sunday, April 26, 2026

We're campaigning for an entire academic year to achieve this goal. The highlight will be a festive benefit event at the VUB Etterbeek campus on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Be sure to keep an eye on our calendar. We're making it an "Artistic," "Vibrant," and "Creative" event. Mark your calendars now!

Join in!

With this project, we not only honor the ideas of Caroline Pauwels – belief in people, providing opportunities, and building bridges – but we also make a tangible difference in the lives of young people in Brussels.

Support this project

Do you have a company number and would you like an invoice? This is possible starting at €50 (after payment, please email your details to info@osb.be ).