All Belgian schools will reopen on September 1, Prime Minister Sophie Wilmès said after Thursday’s National Security Council meeting, confirming an earlier decision of regional governments, who are responsible for education in Belgium.
If coronavirus infections rise in a particular commune, secondary schools might have to temporarily rotate students, letting them attend school only every other week.
Wilmès also announced some loosening of restrictions to fight the coronavirus.
As of Monday, Belgians will be allowed to go shopping with a maximum of two people, rather than having to go alone as at present.
As was the case before infections rose in the summer, the number of people allowed to attend bigger events will be increased to up to 200 for indoor events and up to 400 at outdoor events, with all standard security measures enforced.
The government opted not to loosen other restrictions before schools reopen as this will anyway lead to more social interaction and more mobility. “A return to normality is not possible yet,” Wilmès said.