Following the spike in infection numbers across Luxembourgish schools, the Ministry of Education now wants to conduct an in-depth analysis of the situation while pupils are being taught remotely. "The virus behaves differently at the moment and we need to acknowledged that fact", Minister Meisch emphasised after a meeting of the respective Chamber commissions.
He explained that a new set of measures is needed, but was unwilling to speculate over their nature. However, he made it clear that he wants schools to reopen after the holiday week: "We are currently working on a new safety model, but still need to await results from certain analyses. We will take a decision over the course of the week, but believe that the reopening of schools is of critical importance for children, society, and the future of this country."
Minister Meisch further noted that one would also have to take extracurricular activities into account in the decision-making process, including child care and club activities.
CSV used the opportunity to reiterate their position that the government failed to adequately prepare for the challenges ahead over the course of the summer holidays.
Party leader Martine Hansen noted that new measures are urgently required and elaborated on her vision: "We still believe that masks need to become mandatory in primary schools and that we need to introduce Covid flash tests. In Austria for instance, they have tests that children can perform themselves and that are less unpleasant for them. Luxembourg has a lot to make up for in that regard. Furthermore, we think that home-schooling, on which we will probably have to fall back again, also lacks adequate preparation."
CSV also demands that pupils with learning difficulties be provided with additional private lessons to help even the scales.
The Pirate Party also commented on the issue, praising the Minister of Education for finally acknowledging the infection risks inside schools. Nevertheless, MP Marc Goergen is still uncertain about a reopening after the holidays: "It is clear for our party that the risk has become even higher. We therefore advocate that remote learning continues after the holidays."
A final decision is set to be taken by Friday, when both the Chamber's education and health commissions have convened again.
