Education proposals focus on merit

LR senator and presidential candidate Bruno Retailleau has outlined education proposals centered on "merit" in a book published by Observatoire editions. The book contains 18 thematic letters and was not intended as a comprehensive program. Retailleau explained that he wanted to avoid overwhelming the public with too many proposals, as he regularly makes new ones each week.

Personal approach to public communication

Retailleau aimed to address the French people "in a very personal way" through the book. He provided some insight into his personal background and emphasized a desire to move away from the politicization of politics. He expressed concern over the challenges faced by many compatriots and stated that France is at the brink of a serious crisis, urging more seriousness in addressing these issues.

Critique of Parcoursup system

Retailleau responded to the demands of high school students calling for the end of Parcoursup and an additional 10 billion euros to improve study conditions. He criticized Parcoursup as a "black box" that stresses families and young people, arguing that it does not select on merit. He proposed a new platform that would be exclusively based on merit.

Support for university selection

This aligns with the conclusions of a Senate inquiry commission on higher education, which recommended the end of unselective access to the first year of bachelor's degrees for those with the baccalaureate. Retailleau advocates for "selection at the university," arguing that the current system hides the selection process. He noted that about half of the students who enter university after the baccalaureate will not have a university degree after five years and views this as a failure.

Criticism of La France Insoumise

Retailleau also criticized La France Insoumise, suggesting that the party encourages violence during high school mobilizations. He stated that if he were still in the government, he would have taken legal action against Jean-Luc Mélenchon for incitement to rebellion. He argued that the anti-republican behavior of the Insoumis cannot be ignored.