Flemish education minister on drop in adult learning enrolments after fee hike: “A course is an investment in yourself”

The drop in enrolment on adult education courses since the introduction of her reforms comes as no surprise to Education minister Zuhal Demir (N-VA). “We happily pay for Netflix or the gym, but when it comes to investing 50 euros a month in ourselves, that suddenly seems too much,” she said.

Figures from adult education centres show sharp declines in enrolment numbers for language courses and subjects such as cookery, fashion and photography, with some courses seeing numbers fall by over 50 per cent. This has led to classes being cancelled and temporary staff losing their jobs. Conversely, enrolment in technical training, Dutch as a second language, literacy modules and second-chance education is increasing.

Language classes in Brussels hit by fee hikes

Enrolment numbers for English and French courses at adult education centres in Brussels have plummeted following the Flemish government's decision...

belganewsagency.eu

Demir stressed that funding had been redirected towards occupations where there is a shortage of workers, such as care and technical roles, where enrolment numbers are growing. "If someone needs a language course for their job, I assume the employer will pay," she added.

Under the reform, 'hobby courses' have become almost three times more expensive, increasing from 1.50 euros to 4 euros per lesson hour, while training for shortage occupations has become cheaper. This is expected to save the Flemish budget 33 million euros.

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