Response from the Minister Responsible for Education Regarding Possible School Closures Linked to Curaçao’s Participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
WILLEMSTAD – The Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sport (ESKD), Sithree van Heydoorn, has taken note of reports circulating in newspapers and on social media about potential disruptions in schools related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The minister is providing clarification on the matter in order to prevent unnecessary concern within the community.
The possible participation of Curaçao’s national football team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup would represent a special, historic, and important moment for the people of Curaçao. The minister understands and shares the enthusiasm this possibility has generated among the public, including students, parents, teachers, and non-teaching staff. At the same time, the month of June is a critical period in the academic year, when final examinations take place, educational programs are completed, and preparations for the new school year begin. The minister emphasized that the continuity of education remains a national priority.
The minister explained that on February 3 the Ministry of ESKD held a meeting with the management of all schools to share the ministry’s position and to gather information about the situation within the schools. The ministry has taken into account, among other things, the examination period and the importance of maintaining continuity in education. For this reason, the ministry will not grant a general school holiday.
It is important to note that far more students and teachers will not be participating in the World Cup than those who have already submitted requests to attend. Any decision must serve the broader public interest. Closing schools in connection with the World Cup would effectively mean suspending education for two weeks. Such a decision would not be responsible or fair to those who will not be attending the tournament.
Furthermore, a decision cannot be made in isolation from other sectors of the community, which may also wish to participate in the World Cup. The option of closing schools and starting the new academic year two weeks earlier is also not considered responsible. Such a decision would have two negative consequences: first, it would remove two weeks of exam preparation time for students, and second, it would conflict with vacations already scheduled for August.
Based on the points discussed, school administrators agreed with the ministry’s position not to close schools. They also discussed how school boards will evaluate requests for leave or exemptions, which fall under the responsibility of each school’s administration. It was agreed that the same criteria should be used in evaluating requests, such as proof of tickets to World Cup matches and travel arrangements. The minister asked all school administrators to review these requests carefully and communicate their decisions to parents, teachers, and staff as quickly as possible. Evaluations should be conducted in a transparent and consistent manner, seeking a balance between maintaining educational continuity and recognizing this potentially historic moment.
Finally, the minister emphasized that parents remain responsible for ensuring that their children’s education remains the top priority.
Participation in the World Cup would be a unique opportunity, but it should not jeopardize the academic results of students. Purchasing match tickets or travel arrangements without approval from the school or employer is a risk that individuals must take knowingly and at their own responsibility.
The minister expressed confidence that school administrators will handle requests professionally and responsibly. The Ministry of ESKD remains available to provide guidance where needed.
“Leadership does not mean saying ‘yes’ to everything,” the minister stated. “Leadership also requires the courage to say ‘no’ when necessary.”
Minister Sithree van Heydoorn therefore calls on the entire community to act in the broader public interest and looks forward to the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders.