A new study by the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and KU Leuven reveals that Belgium will face a shortage of 3,731 places in special education by the 2030-2031 school year if no action is taken.
The report indicates that the demand for specialised education is expected to rise in nearly all provinces, with the exception of Flemish Brabant and the Brussels-Capital Region.
In primary specialised education, the shortage is projected to reach 2,184 places, or 7.3% of total demand. The highest deficits are anticipated in categories for intellectual disabilities (Type 2), motor disabilities (Type 4), speech disorders (Type 7), and autism (Type 9).
For secondary specialised education, the shortfall is expected to be even more severe, with 3,731 places lacking, amounting to 15.1% of total need.
“These figures show that we need a fundamental rethink of our education system,” said Education Minister Zuhal Demir (N-VA). The minister, who previously announced plans to reform specialised education, emphasised that the education system’s core mission is to provide quality education for every child. “By making the right choices now, we can ensure a place for everyone. That’s why we’re going to radically change course.”
One proposed solution is the introduction of “pioneer schools,” in which teams from mainstream schools, specialised schools, and support centres collaborate to offer integrated education for all students. “Special education will be reserved for children who truly need it,” the minister explained.
Meanwhile, the shortage of places in mainstream education is expected to largely disappear within five years due to demographic shifts. This will ease pressure on the education system, infrastructure, and teaching staff.
“With a stable school population in regular education, more teachers will become available,” Demir noted. “They can also play a role in addressing the shortages in specialised education.”
