He left open the possibility of mandatory vaccinations to students and university faculty, the Niki Kerameos. The Minister of Education noted that it is «an absolute priority for the government The plan is to return to in-person instruction starting in September. We are discussing with experts the measures that will ensure this. »The first and most important is the vaccine, but there are other measures as well.".
«There is no doubt that the vaccine is our best defense. As of yesterday (Thursday, July 15), the platform opened for children aged 15 and older,» the Minister of Education added, noting that regarding the return of students to lecture halls, the possibility remains open that vaccination could be made mandatory for faculty and students, as a prerequisite for attending classes. «We will consider all options,» the minister clarified, noting in this regard that «about 75% of teachers have already been vaccinated, but that’s not enough; we need more vaccinations. It’s very important that we make use of this weapon against the pandemic,» she told ANT1.
Changes in Schools
The minister said that starting in September, «children aged 4 and older will attend preschool throughout Greece. Kindergartens will offer activities in English, as well as a range of skills—from robotics to career guidance—from kindergarten through secondary education. The number of Model and Experimental schools across the country has doubled; the first model vocational high schools are launching; and 11,700 permanent teaching appointments are being made— the first permanent appointments in education in 12 years.».
Regarding the decline in the number of students admitted to higher education, Ms. Kerameos said that «We have 9,000 more students than last year who were deemed not to meet the academic requirements to complete the online application. For the first time, the online application process will be two-part: one for university programs and another for public vocational training institutes (IEK). Up to 27,000 students can enroll in public vocational training institutes (IEK) and in fields that are in high demand in the job market.».
