Higher education sector to remain closed for longer

On Monday, the outgoing Cabinet decided that tertiary education institutions cannot reopen their doors just yet. Primary and secondary schools will be reopened next week.

On Monday, the Dutch Cabinet, acting on a recommendation issued by the Outbreak Management Team, announced that higher education institutions must teach their classes online in the week commencing 10 January. However, primary and secondary schools will reopen their doors on Monday the 10th. In addition, outdoor sport venues catering to children and adolescents aged under 18 will reopen, as well.

Booster shots

According to the outgoing Minister for Health, Hugo de Jonge, it is too soon to reopen higher education institutions, ‘since there will be more movements there, and more people will get infected’. He stressed the importance of vaccine booster shots, and said that the more people get vaccinated, the more restrictions will be able to be relaxed.

In other words, higher education institutions will have to teach their classes online in the week commencing 10 January. However, exceptions will be made for vulnerable students, examinations and practical training.

The current coronavirus restrictions will remain in force until 14 January. On that date the Cabinet will review the effect of the current restrictions.