Greek Education Reforms Announced by Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis

Significant reforms are underway in Greek schools, according to Education Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis, who outlined the changes in an interview with REAL FM on Monday.

Speaking from Paris, where he is attending a UNESCO conference on digital technology, Pierrakakis detailed the government's plan to overhaul the education system, emphasising that these changes will continue throughout the current administration's term.

Key aspects of the reform include:

- Permanent Teacher Recruitment: Efforts are being made to hire permanent teachers to reduce reliance on substitutes, aiming to enhance the educational process and student experience.

- Cell Phone Regulations: New rules will govern the use of cell phones in schools, including specific penalties for violations.

- Vandalism Accountability: Families will be held financially responsible for damages caused by their children at school, with Pierrakakis stressing that "the family will pay for everything their child destroys."

Additionally, Pierrakakis highlighted a major renovation program for schools across Greece. Although responsibility for school maintenance lies with municipalities, the state will play a role in addressing infrastructure issues. "The interactive blackboard is beneficial, but it’s ineffective when buildings are deteriorating," he noted. Details of this renovation initiative are expected to be revealed by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in the near future.