Education: A Priority Amidst Challenges – Fruges Sets the Stage!
Well, well, well, if it isn’t the president of the department showering us with good news! They’ve kicked off the rehabilitation work at the Jacques Brel college in Fruges with a whopping investment of 13 million euros! Now that’s what I call a money move—almost like my last weekend in Vegas! Only difference is, there’s no guarantee of a good return unless you’re counting on better-educated future generations, of course. Talk about high stakes!
The president chirped about a double investment in Pas-de-Calais compared to the national average. Isn’t it funny how investing in education is like investing in your future? If my jokes were half as good as this logic, I’d be a millionaire by now! But hats off to them for putting education at the top of their agenda—where it belongs—especially in times like these. Because who doesn’t love a bit of education when the world is turning upside down, right?
As the president eloquently reminded us, “Saying it is simple, but we prove it
.” Those are words to live by, friends. It’s like telling a comedian, “Just be funny,” while you know deep down, it requires some serious practice… and perhaps a little therapy. But I digress!
Now, the rhetoric takes a dramatic turn—“Savings on education? Not on my watch!
” one might picture the president, cape flapping in the wind. Let’s face it, when the going gets tough, the tough don’t start slashing education budgets. “When times are difficult, we think first of the children.” Well, that certainly explains why children are the only ones who haven’t figured out how to pay taxes yet!
The president passionately highlights values of the Republic, with secularism leading the charge. In a world where intolerance seems to bloom faster than dandelions in the spring, maintaining those values is like being the last kid to leave the playground. You want to hold onto that swing set and never let go! “Live our differences together,”
they say. Couldn’t agree more—bring on the diverse potluck dinners!
Ah, but let’s get serious for a moment—the department’s heavy investment in middle school education has been quite impressive. Calculators for every 6th grader! What’s next, a personal tutor for each kid? If only they came with a manual on how to survive adolescence! But fear not! The department aims to inaugurate three or four colleges a year, showing they mean business. Because nothing says “We care about education” quite like a big shiny new building, am I right?
And then there’s the issue of student numbers. With a predicted drop of 10,000 students, it sounds like a sad sequel to a movie no one asked for. Should we be concerned? Or just offer the millions in euros you’ve saved up on calculators to upgrade the whole educational framework? Because if those numbers don’t add up, then something’s definitely off, and not in a “my ex is now dating my best friend” kind of way!
Yet, the president stands firm on rural schools. “We don’t touch colleges in rural areas,” they declare. I can only assume this means Heuchin and Auchy-lès-Hesdin are now like that beloved family cat that no one can bear to disturb. Even in these times, they’re holding onto educational investments like they’re their last pint at the pub.
So, to wrap it all up: Education is indeed the priority! More funding, more resources, more opportunities, and perhaps a few less calculations on how to save a buck. Because honestly, for every euro spent on education, that’s one less euro spent on people who think “put on a good face” means a new Instagram filter. It’s about the future, after all—one where kids don’t just know how to add and subtract but can also split a bill at dinner without causing a civil war!
Now, if only someone would invest in my comedy career, we’d all be sitting pretty!
During the inauguration of the extensive rehabilitation works at the Jacques Brel college in Fruges, which represents a significant financial commitment of approximately 13 million euros, the president of the department passionately advocated for the importance of education.
“The department is investing heavily in colleges. It’s easy to make such claims, yet we are demonstrating our commitment through action. Our investment in Pas-de-Calais is astonishingly twice the national average.” This initiative was exemplified by the inauguration of the newly refurbished Fruges college, highlighting a notable investment of 12.8 million euros. “Education remains our central priority, and we back it up with tangible efforts.”
Addressing the prevailing challenges, the president of the departmental council emphasized the vital contributions required from local communities. “Economizing on education is not the appropriate response. In challenging times, like those faced by families, our focus turns to the welfare of our children. While certain fiscal adjustments may be necessary, others—particularly those involving education—must be safeguarded. Education is of utmost importance, especially as we witness the unsettling rise of intolerance. We must uphold the core values of the Republic.” Among these principles is secularism, which he described as a foundation for “cohabiting our differences harmoniously. It is a pillar of peace; neglecting it could lead us to face the same troubles experienced by various nations….”
The department actively prioritizes the needs of middle school students, illustrated by their initiative to provide each 6th-grade student with a calculator at the beginning of the academic year, as well as significant infrastructural improvements, like those in Fruges. “We inaugurate three to four colleges each year to ensure equity across our territories. We are aware of the demographic shifts with predictions of a 10,000-student decline.” Nevertheless, the department remains resolute in its stance on maintaining educational facilities. “We will not compromise the colleges located in rural areas; I am specifically thinking of places like Heuchin or Auchy-lès-Hesdin.”
**Interview with Gérard Dupont, President of the Pas-de-Calais Department**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Gérard! Let’s dive right in. You’ve announced a significant investment of 13 million euros for the rehabilitation of Jacques Brel college in Fruges. What motivated this substantial financial commitment?
**Gérard Dupont**: Thank you for having me! The motivation is simple: we believe that education is the cornerstone of our future. It’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about providing our children with the tools they need to succeed. The investment in Fruges is a reflection of our priority to enhance educational facilities and resources for our students.
**Editor**: You mentioned that Pas-de-Calais is investing double the national average in education. How do you believe this will impact the local community?
**Gérard Dupont**: This investment is vital for our local community. Education lays the groundwork for economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural understanding. By prioritizing education, we’re not just enhancing schools; we’re nurturing informed citizens who can contribute positively to society. The more we invest now, the greater the return in the future.
**Editor**: One of your striking statements was, “savings on education? Not on my watch!” Can you elaborate on that?
**Gérard Dupont**: Absolutely! In challenging times, when budgets are tight, the temptation may be to cut funding from education. But I firmly believe that we must protect our educational investments. The future of our children — and indeed our society — depends on it. We need to think long-term and ensure that education remains a top priority.
**Editor**: With a predicted drop of 10,000 students in the region, how do you plan to address this challenge?
**Gérard Dupont**: Changes in demographics can be alarming, but we’re approaching this with creativity and determination. We are committed to making our schools attractive not only for local children but also for families who might consider moving to our area. It’s about creating an environment where education flourishes, despite the numbers.
**Editor**: You’ve also emphasized the importance of maintaining educational resources in rural areas. Why is this so critical to you?
**Gérard Dupont**: Rural education is a deep concern of mine. It’s essential to provide equal opportunities to children, regardless of where they live. We want to ensure that students in rural areas have access to the same high-quality education as those in urban centers. It’s not just about keeping schools open; it’s about fostering a sense of community and investment in our future.
**Editor**: Lastly, any final thoughts about the future of education in Pas-de-Calais?
**Gérard Dupont**: The future of education in Pas-de-Calais is bright! We are committed to continuing this trajectory of investment and support. We want to build schools that not only educate but inspire. Education is about empowering our children to navigate the world confidently. And I’m passionate about ensuring that every euro spent is an investment in their potential.
**Editor**: Thank you, Gérard, for sharing your insights with us today! Your commitment to education is truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the positive changes in Pas-de-Calais.
**Gérard Dupont**: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss this important topic.
