Belgium (Flemish Community): Major investment in digital education infrastructure
In July 2025, the Flemish Government approved €176 million to upgrade digital infrastructure in schools under its new ICT policy plan, Digiplan. The funding will provide high-quality equipment for staff, shared devices for primary schools, and flexible support for secondary schools, with a focus on sustainability, inclusion, and teacher training.
On 18 July 2025, the Flemish Government approved a decree to invest €176 million in digital infrastructure and equipment for schools, training centres, and arts academies. This funding is part of Digiplan, a long-term strategy to ensure all pupils have access to modern technology and to use digital tools to improve teaching quality.
The funding is allocated across three key priorities:
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Equipment for staff: €70 million will fund high-quality digital devices for teachers, school leaders, and administrative staff in primary, secondary, part-time arts, and adult education.
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Primary schools: €46 million will provide shared devices, such as laptop trolleys and tablets, to ensure equitable access.
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Secondary schools: €60 million in flexible funding will allow schools to buy equipment based on their specific needs.
Schools must spend the funds by the end of 2027, with strict rules to ensure transparency for parents and prevent digital exclusion through social correction mechanisms.
Beyond the financial investment, the government requires every school to have a fully developed ICT policy plan and a clear vision for staff professional development in place by 1 September 2026. This approach ensures the government invests not just in hardware, but in building a sustainable digital culture in schools.
A second funding round will follow in 2026. From 2027, the policy will be reviewed annually based on its impact, cost-effectiveness, and educational benefits.
Ultimately, the government aims to create a future-proof, inclusive education system where digital tools support high-quality teaching for all pupils.
For more information: https://www.vlaanderen.be/kenniscentrum-digisprong/nieuws/vlaamse-regering-investeert-in-digitale-infrastructuur-voor-onderwijs
Source: Eurydice Unit Belgium (Flemish Community)
