Quarter of Brussels High Schoolers Absent Problematically, Data Shows

In Brussels, a stark reality has emerged: more than one in four high school students are grappling with problematic school absenteeism. During the 2024-2025 academic year, these students were absent without valid justification for over nine half-days. This alarming trend, revealed by data from the Brussels Institute for Statistics and Analysis (BISA), points to a widespread issue affecting the capital's youth.

The problem extends beyond mere attendance. The statistics indicate that nearly one-fifth of Brussels' young people are exiting the secondary education system without acquiring any diploma or qualification. This dual challenge of high absenteeism and low graduation rates raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current educational support systems and the future prospects of a significant portion of the city's student population.

These figures underscore a critical juncture for educational policymakers in Brussels. Addressing the root causes of chronic absenteeism and improving educational outcomes will be crucial for ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed and contribute to society.