The government has announced plans to alleviate the financial burden on East Belgian families by implementing measures to reduce school attendance costs for secondary school pupils. Starting from September, a new annual subsidy of 100 euros per secondary school pupil will be introduced. This subsidy aims to eliminate charges for copies, diaries, and the issuing of leaving certificates, providing relief for parents. 

A survey conducted at the end of 2020 highlighted administrative costs as the primary factor contributing to secondary school expenses, regardless of the year group or field of study. These costs include the distribution of copies to students, the provision of diaries, and the issuance of diplomas. 

It is worth noting that elementary schools in Belgium have been receiving funding to reduce school attendance costs since 2014. A 2017 analysis by the Federation of Families confirmed the success of this measure. 

For more information:  
https://lydiaklinkenberg.be/reduzierte-schulbesuchskosten-fuer-sekundarschulen-ab-september/  

Source: Eurydice Unit Belgium (DE)