Despite new national restrictions in France – including a curfew – schools will remain open and there are plans to test one million students and teachers a month, France’s Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer announced on Thursday.
It is essential that schools remain open because there are psychological, health and educational consequences, ”said Blanquer.
According to him, health measures will be reinforced during meals and sports activities in closed spaces will be canceled.
Although schools have remained open during most of the pandemic, universities have shifted mainly to online education.
French Prime Minister Jean Castex announced on Thursday a gradual resumption of face-to-face teaching at universities, saying he appreciated that the situation was “extremely difficult” for university students and their mental health.
College students “feel that the health crisis has stolen their best moments,” said French Minister of Higher Education, Frédérique Vidal, echoing the concerns expressed in the French media last week.
All first-year students will be able to attend seminars in smaller groups from January 25, and the measure may be extended later to students of other years, depending on the epidemic, said Vidal.
The government also announced measures of economic and psychological support to students.
These announcements come as the French government tightens restrictions nationwide, with the 6pm to 6am curfew spread across the country.