Education

D66, VVD and GroenLinks‑PvdA want laptops or tablets to be included in the law, that currently guarantees free schoolbooks. The parties argue this would support digitalization and reduce inequality, but State Secretary Judith Tielen questions whether the problem is large enough to justify the estimated 221 million‑euro annual cost.

The number of teacher vacancies in primary and secondary education fell last school year, while demand rose in vocational and special primary education. CBS figures show a mixed picture, with shortages expected to grow again in the coming years. The data also reflect a broader national decline in job vacancies.

The three coalition parties, D66, VVD, and CDA, aim to invest a structural €1.5 billion in education. This funding will be used to reverse...