Flemish school pupils walk out on strike over education reforms

Hundreds of Flemish students marched through several cities on Thursday to protest against recent education reforms introduced by the region's government, joining wider debate over changes to school rules and the academic calendar.

The demonstrations come amid growing dissatisfaction among young people with new measures affecting school life.

Students voiced frustration with a range of policies from Flemish education minister Zuhal Demir, including a strict ban on smartphone use in schools and plans to reduce or eliminate certain free days such as bridges between holidays and free days after exams.

The smartphone prohibition, enforced in schools since last autumn, has drawn particular criticism. Students say it limits their autonomy, while defenders argue it can improve concentration and reduce distractions.

Another contested reform would require teaching on the first and last days of term and a significant cut to non-teaching days.

A survey of teachers in Flanders showed that almost nine in 10 opposed compulsory schooling on those days and the reduction of days off.

Students participating in the protests also used social media to amplify their message, posting videos and content critical of the policies and calling on authorities to rethink the reforms.