Three stories high it stands a beacon of learning in Molenbeek. This is GO! Basisschool Eugeen Laermans. It’s more than just a school. It’s a testament to community revitalization. Nestled near the West Station it occupies a site once industrial. Now it’s a vibrant hub for young minds.
The school opened recently in 2021. It cost 7.2 million euros to build. It offers space for approximately 220 students. The building is impressive. It features four kindergarten classrooms on the ground floor. There’s also an administrative area and a covered playground with bicycle storage.
Upstairs a cafeteria and a multi-purpose hall stand ready. This hall includes changing rooms and showers. It’s available for after-school activities. Eleven classrooms and support rooms occupy the upper floors. A rooftop playground completes the design.
Eugeen Laermans the school’s namesake was a Belgian painter. His art depicted the lives of farmers and factory workers in Molenbeek. His social activism resonates with the school’s mission. GO! Basisschool Eugeen Laermans aims for equal opportunities for all students. It’s a fitting tribute to a socially conscious artist.
The school is a part of a larger project. This project seeks to improve the poorest neighborhood in Belgium. It aims to strengthen social cohesion in the area. The addition of a new daycare center next door ensures a smooth transition for children. It supports a seamless journey from childcare to primary school. This new school isn’t just bricks and mortar. It’s a symbol of hope and progress for Molenbeek. It’s a place where dreams are nurtured and futures are built. It’s a place that reflects a commitment to creating a better future. A future where every child has a chance to thrive.