The Socialist opposition in the Wallonia-Brussels Federation has slammed a government measure that reduces support for mainstream school students with learning difficulties or disabilities.
The Socialist Party (PS) claims the MR-Engagés majority has decided to cut €9 million in funding, which they say amounts to a 10% reduction. According to a party statement, the cut will lead to the loss of around 170 jobs currently dedicated to integrating students with special needs, starting from the next school year.
Since 2021, measures have been implemented to make schools more inclusive. However, a recent ruling by the Constitutional Court has required a revision of how resources are allocated. The PS criticises the government for interpreting this decision as a mandate to reduce funding, arguing that the court’s ruling did not necessitate such cuts.
“When a teacher has a class of 24 students, including three or four with disabilities or learning difficulties, it’s impossible to meet everyone’s needs without external support. It’s this vital support that the MR and Engagés have decided to slash,” said the PS, calling the decision “a scandal.”
Responding on Sunday, the office of Education Minister Valérie Glatigny (MR) denied this was a deliberate government decision. Instead, it attributed the situation to the Constitutional Court’s ruling on territorial hubs, which organise support services.
“The provision can remain in place until the end of the 2025-2026 school year, so nothing changes for the current year,” Minister Glatigny’s office said. “We’ve incorporated support for students with sensory-motor disabilities into the hubs’ basic funding. Discussions are ongoing to ensure compliance with the court’s ruling without disadvantaging students in the future.”
