Green MP Kim Buyst has slammed the Flemish government’s plan to tighten eligibility for study grants. Key measures include:
- A total budget cut of €34 million for disadvantaged students.
- An age cap of 30 years old, hindering lifelong learning.
- A strict minimum threshold of 54 credits, which critics call “unrealistic.”
Demand for a One-Year Delay
Groen is calling for the implementation to be pushed back to the 2027-2028 academic year. According to Buyst, the current timeline is “irresponsible,” as students and universities have been left in the dark during crucial orientation periods. “Students preparing for their future today don’t even know if they will qualify for a grant next year,” she stated.
Defending Vulnerable Students
The Greens argue that the 54-credit requirement will lead to higher dropout rates among those who struggle most. As an alternative, Groen has submitted two key proposals to the Education Commission:
- Postponing the reform by one year.
- Lowering the credit threshold from 54 to 45 to give vulnerable students a fair chance at success.
🌱 “Investing in higher education is investing in our collective future.”
