Paris (AFP)

Vaccination of children under 12 against Covid-19 is "not on the agenda," Minister of National Education Jean-Michel Blanquer said on Thursday, as the start of the school year approaches.

Vaccinating under 12s against the coronavirus, "this is a topic that is watched globally. Obviously, it is very important to take a step back on these issues. As I speak, this is no news, it is really the 12-17 year-olds who are concerned, "Mr. Blanquer told media, during a trip to the Hauts-de-Seine.

"The 12-17 year old segment (for vaccination) was decided some time ago in the light of scientific studies and therefore, today, this is really our reference doctrine", he said. he adds.

"Today, the goal is to have those over 12 who are vaccinated (against Covid-19) in France", continued the minister.

More than half of French adolescents aged 12 to 17 received at least one dose of coronanivus vaccine this summer, which should help keep schools open, he said.

"The 12-17 year olds were able to get vaccinated a lot during this summer, we have now exceeded 50% of 12-17 year olds first vaccinated, we also exceed 30% of those who have had two (doses of) vaccines. C 'is obviously in favor of a (school) year as normal as possible, "Blanquer said.

The start of the school year for students in France is scheduled for Thursday, September 2.

The minister will announce in the coming days the health protocol adopted for schools, colleges and high schools, among four possible scenarios, depending on the degree of circulation of the virus.

"From now on, everyone can be certain that, one, we will open, two, the essential elements that we already know will be present", he said, referring to the maintenance of the use of the mask and respect for barrier gestures.

"We are also organized for vaccination campaigns from September for students who would not be vaccinated on the incentive mode since, I remind you, there is obviously no health pass to go to school. 'school,' said Blanquer.

"School must be as open as possible for all children in France," he insisted.

"This is what has guided us so far and this is what will guide us next year (2021-2022) as well."

© 2021 AFP