Dutch-speaking schools in Brussels can continue to count on the services of interpreters at a reduced rate to assist in conversations with parents who speak other languages.
The Flemish Community Commission (VGC) said on Friday it will continue to invest in interpreters in 2022, meaning schools can call on their services at a preferential rate of €5 per interpreting session. Brussels Mulitlinguality Minister Sven Gatz has earmarked €15,000 for this for the coming year.
"It appears that schools are asking for interpreters for the contact with parents. Efficient communication between school and parents is important. However, the cost price was an obstacle for many schools," he said in a statement.
"That is why we are again releasing a budget and providing a reduced rate for the use of interpreters."
Enhanced student guidance
In 2021, the VGC set aside €11,000 to offer interpreting services at a reduced rate via its partner vzw Brussel Onthaal. In the period March-December 2021, about 500 interpreter sessions were requested by schools and Centres for Student Guidance (CLB).
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Strengthening communication with parents, especially when it comes to sensitive or complex subjects or topics with far-reaching consequences, helps ensure that the guidance of pupils can improve, both at home and at school.
In the multi-cultural city that is Brussels, the school language does not always correspond with the language of the parents. "The use of interpreters can help to make the conversation more qualitative, nuanced and effective," the statement read.
Schools in primary education, secondary education, CLBs and adult education centres can make use of this preferential rate.
