Increase of Early School Leavers in Luxembourg
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Loading... - Laoise Hogan
- 21 Mar 2025
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The issue of early school leavers in Luxembourg has come under scrutiny, with recent statistics indicating a slight increase in the number of students dropping out after the age of compulsory education. This topic was addressed in a parliamentary question posed to Education Minister Claude Meisch by MP Marc Spautz of the Christian Social People's Party (CSV).
According to Minister Meisch, the number of early school leavers has risen since the 2019/2020 school year. In that year, there were 1,473 early school leavers out of a total of 21,155 students, representing 7.0% of the student population. In contrast, the 2023/2024 school year saw an increase to 1,884 early school leavers out of 22,973 students, which equates to 8.2%. While this increase of 411 students is concerning, it still falls within the European Commission's target of keeping early school leavers below 9% for each EU country. The current European average stands at 9.8%.
The report on early school leavers and inactive youth provides insights into the reasons behind this trend. Common factors include students pursuing new educational or professional projects and difficulties in finding traineeships. Understanding these motivations is crucial for addressing the issue effectively.
To assist students who leave school early, Luxembourg has established several support services:
i. Psychosocial and Scholastic Assistance Service (SePAS): Students who wish to leave school after the age of compulsory attendance are offered a session with SePAS to explore the reasons behind their decision.
ii. SCRIPT Follow-Up: Former students are added to a list of early school leavers maintained by the Service for the Coordination of Educational and Technological Research and Innovation (SCRIPT), which helps track and support these individuals.
iii. National Youth Service: This service conducts follow-up work with early school leavers who are no longer of compulsory school age, encouraging them to pursue opportunities for professional development.
Minister Meisch highlighted ongoing efforts to promote vocational training through initiatives like the "YEP!-Schoulfoire" organized by the Educational and Vocational Guidance Centre (Maison de l'orientation). A campaign is currently being developed in collaboration with social partners to strengthen vocational training and provide more pathways for students.
The next report on early school leavers and inactive youth is scheduled for publication in May, which is expected to provide further details on the reasons for early school leaving and the effectiveness of the support measures in place.
The increase in early school leavers in Luxembourg raises important questions about educational support and vocational training opportunities. By understanding the reasons behind this trend and enhancing support services, Luxembourg aims to reduce the number of students leaving school prematurely and ensure they have access to meaningful educational and professional pathways.
