“The problem is the lack of training. On average, the inhabitants of the province of Hainaut are less qualified. This directly means that the supply does not match the demand. However, we have in the territory of the sectors in shortage like the trades of the building or the itinerant professions with technology“, notes Arnaud Fleurquin.
The provincial deputy for the Economy Fabienne Devilers goes further: “One in two people of working age do not work. We must push towards training. But it is not easy. Some were not given an example of what it was to work. There is an endemic inactivity that is difficult to stem. But with the inauguration of the Cité des Métiers next September in Charleroi, this should make it possible to offer alternatives and opportunities.“
ULB and UMons will also open an office in Charleroi. “It is an important lever. Young people will be able to study here and a new economic fabric will be able to develop“, continues Arnaud Fleurquin.
But the magic wand does not exist. “We estimate in our forecasts that it is possible that Hainaut will make up for part of its delay thanks to sustained training and development policies. But on the other hand, we have a heavy heritage that is difficult to overcome. We think there will be a glass ceiling that we will not be able to cross. Hainaut will still be Belgium’s poor relation for some time.“
This socio-economic situation hinders any ambition of the region. For example, the ecological transition will be more difficult. The building is old. More than 55% of the housing stock was built before 1946. This rate drops to 48% for Wallonia and 26.5% for Flanders. And when you earn less (23,501 euros on average in Hainaut against 24,808 euros in Wallonia and 26,412 in Belgium), this makes access to in-depth renovation all the more difficult. A veritable vicious circle that an entire region is trying to get rid of.