The change of health protocols for schools with the new year announced the Minister of Education, who argued that vaccinations «have created new data». The Niki Kerameos said that «the absolute priority is to ensure that the schools are functioning in person».
Speaking on SKAI TV, in the show «Atairistoi», Niki Kerameos said that while last year they were closing classes with the first case coronavirus to avoid spread in the family, now the family is already largely vaccinated «or at least they can be vaccinated».
He added that there will be a discussion with the Committee of Specialists to change the protocols and ensure the continuation of the in-person operation of the schools.
«I emphasize that the absolute priority is to ensure the operation of schools in person and with the committee we will discuss the conditions that will ensure it,» he said, noting that the update of the protocols is expected close to the start of the school year based on the latest epidemiological data.
At the same time, however, he stressed that no teacher who is not either fully vaccinated or has not undergone a weekly laboratory test will enter the classroom, but clarified that the number of laboratory tests required per week for unvaccinated teachers has not yet been determined.
He reiterated that for teachers who will not provide a vaccination certificate or laboratory test, it is foreseen work suspension, while school principals will be responsible for checking teachers' documents.
«Our message is clear: Get vaccinated. There is no greater weapon against pandemic», said Niki Kerameos, who acknowledged however that over 76% of teachers have already been vaccinated.
