As the teachers' union SNE raises alarms about the "limits" of inclusion in education, Ombudsman Charel Schmit counters that the concept is vital and should not be undermined.

"Stop. Inclusion has its limits." This slogan from the teachers' union SNE reflects a growing concern among trade unions and many teachers that providing adequate schooling has become increasingly challenging, notably due to students with specific needs. Minister of Education Claude Meisch announced plans for adaptations related to inclusion at the beginning of the school year.

However, Charel Schmit, Ombudsman for Children and Adolescents, argues that the principle of inclusion should not be called into question.

During the presentation of a new campaign last week, Patrick Remakel, President of the National Teachers' Union (SNE/CGFP), repeated the slogans himself, stating "Stop. School staff at their limits. Stop. Inclusion has its limits." The union's campaign raises questions about the potential changes to inclusion policies.

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Schmit expressed concern over the timing of these discussions, noting, "We are at the beginning of the school year, and it's unfortunate that we are starting by questioning inclusion." He described the SNE's statements as "stigmatising" for students, parents, and teachers who strive to make inclusion a reality. "It works in many, many places," Schmit emphasised.

While he acknowledged witnessing "moments of despair" and challenging individual cases in schools, Schmit insisted that these issues should be addressed on a case-by-case basis rather than undermining the principle of inclusion. He advocated for increased resources to adequately support educators and students, asserting that he does not believe inclusion has limits.

The Ombudsman for Children and Adolescents emphasised that inclusion is fundamentally an open-ended process. "After all, we don't say that democracy has limits or boundaries," Schmit remarked. He stressed that the point of inclusion is that every individual can participate fully in society.

Meanwhile, Minister of Education Claude Meisch has been relatively vague regarding potential changes to inclusion policies, stating, "We don't need a paradigm shift."

In his speech at the start of the 2024/2025 school year, he acknowledged that "in some cases," a different approach might be necessary. This would particularly apply to students who struggle to integrate in school and may benefit from temporary psychotherapeutic intervention outside of the school environment, with the intention of reintegrating them later.

The Ombudsman has requested a meeting with Minister Meisch to discuss these issues further. Neither party has commented in detail on the SNE campaign.