At least 2,000 protesters are anticipated to join the one-day strike of the Flemish teachers’ unions in Antwerp, in opposition to the “committee of wise men” recommendations.
The Flemish Government had asked the committee for progressive suggestions to professionalise the teachers’ role. However, the report, issued in December under the auspices of Flemish Education Minister Ben Weyts (N-VA), has been highly criticised by the unions.
Changes include implementing a mandatory 38-hour work week that does not take into account the extra hours teachers often work when considering their pay. Teachers would also be paid according to the level of degree they hold.
Strikes have been organised by ACOD Onderwijs, COC and VSOA Onderwijs, in five different Flemish cities this month. Following Antwerp on Tuesday, Ostend, Leuven, Hasselt, and finally, Ghent will be the next locations for the demonstrations.
COC union stated that the number of protesters expected in Antwerp is "much higher" than initially anticipated. "Originally, we were expecting 1,000 protesters across the five provinces, but now we’re expecting 2,000 protesters just in Antwerp," said Koen Van Kerkhoven, the organisation’s general secretary, “and counting.”
The majority of the demonstrators are expected to be teachers, with the addition of student support centre workers, according to the trade unionist.
Possible disruptions in Antwerp’s school establishments are expected.
