BACK TO SCHOOL 2021: THE OBJECTIVE OF 100% FACE-TO-FACE MAINTENANCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION

"This 100% face-to-face objective is more than ever maintained," said Frédérique Vidal, Minister of Higher Education, in an interview with the Ouest-France newspaper given at the end of last July. Thus, in September, both in schools, colleges, high schools and higher education establishments, the goal will be to ensure a face-to-face start in France. 

Two devices so that everyone can meet

It is thanks to two devices that this re-entry will be possible. First of all, it will be a question of respecting all barrier gestures , starting with the wearing of the mask which will remain in force at the start of the school year. Other means are also mentioned, such as room ventilation or reinforced cleaning .

The minister adds, however, that the possibility exists of "reducing the number of places in sites where the presence of the virus would be detected or in departments where the rate of circulation of the disease would be too high". We could even consider “going back to the take-away sale for Crous meals”. But, she emphasizes, "we really want everyone to be able to meet".

Vaccination encouraged

"Young people and students are engaged in vaccination". Vaccination is indeed the other axis of a system already well underway since more than 60% of 18-24 year olds have received a first dose of vaccine. There will therefore be "no legal vaccination obligation", specifies the minister, but "we will support students who have not been vaccinated during the summer so that they complete their vaccination schedule from the start. reprise ". To this end, the Government will organize a massive vaccination campaign.

On the other hand, the people present in each establishment could be "tested regularly". And, in the event of the presence of the virus, the general rules will be applied, "namely seven days of isolation for those who test positive and their unvaccinated contact cases". As for vaccinated students, they will be able to "stay on campus".

The "health pass" 

The "health pass" will not be requested in higher education establishments for teaching activities. It will also not be requested in university libraries and university restaurants.

However, the "health pass" will be required for cultural and sporting events as well as for conferences and seminars welcoming people from outside the establishment.  

The importance of welcoming foreign students

"It is essential that France continues to receive foreign students". It is in these terms that the minister approaches the subject, before specifying that France "will not close its borders". International students will continue to be welcomed in French higher education establishments. The terms of their entry into France may vary depending on their country of origin and their vaccination status. Particular attention will be paid to students from countries in the "red" zone. They can join social security before leaving for France and benefit, if they have not yet been vaccinated, from rapid access to vaccination.