Minister Rejects Claims of Policy Reversal
Esther Niubó, Catalonia’s Minister for Education and Vocational Training, has defended the region’s inclusive education model during a parliamentary session on Thursday 8 October 2026, dismissing suggestions that the government intends to roll back support for students with disabilities and special educational needs. Speaking before the Parliament of Catalonia’s Education and Vocational Training Committee, Niubó stressed that inclusion remains the foundation of the only viable school system. "This government believes in equal opportunities, and inclusion must be the basic principle of the only possible system, which is the inclusive system," she said.
Increased Staffing and Funding Commitments
Niubó highlighted that staffing for student support in public schools has grown by more than 35% in recent years, outpacing the 28% rise in students with special educational needs and disabilities (NESE). She presented the figures as evidence of the government’s strengthened commitment to inclusive education. The minister also confirmed that the new model will be integrated into a forthcoming agreement entrusted to the Council of Education of Catalonia, following nearly a decade since the 2017 regulatory framework was adopted. Adjustments are needed, she said, to better align theoretical provisions with students’ real-world needs.
Broader Education Reforms Announced
The session also outlined key strategic priorities for the 2026–2027 academic year, including reduced class sizes, reinforced teaching of core literacy and numeracy skills, and expanded reading programmes. Additionally, 500 new teaching positions will be allocated to welcome classes for newly arrived students. The government will also distribute €100 million to municipalities for school infrastructure improvements, as part of a wider €2.5 billion plan to climate-proof educational facilities across Catalonia, according to announcements on govern.cat and reports in La Vanguardia.
"While student numbers with special needs have risen by 28%, support staff have increased by over 35%.", Esther Niubó, Minister for Education and Vocational Training
Primary sources: govern.cat, portaljuridic.gencat.cat. Reported by diarideladiscapacitat.cat, Departament d'Edicions del Parlament de Catalunya, Parlament de Catalunya, parlament.cat, David Expósito J, ccoo.cat, lavanguardia.com, El Periódico, elmon.cat, Diari de la Discapacitat.
