Students and university groups across Greece are preparing for nationwide protests on Thursday, November 6, affecting schools and higher education institutions. The demonstrations aim to highlight issues including teacher shortages, outdated school infrastructure, and recent changes to the National High School Diploma.
In many middle and high schools, student councils have organized walkouts and school occupations. The protests oppose the new diploma system, which students say increases exam pressure and turns every school year into a high-stakes testing period, similar to national exams.
University students are also taking part, with dozens of student unions announcing closures of faculties and departments. Their demands include halting student expulsions, increasing state funding for public universities, improving facilities, and ensuring affordable student welfare services. The protests call for “public and free education for all” and better living and study conditions for students.
It is important to note that school closures are not automatic. Classes will proceed as usual unless a student-led occupation is officially declared, in which case absences will be recorded according to regulations. Decisions to participate in protests are made by student councils at individual schools.
Authorities are monitoring the demonstrations closely, as students mobilize to voice concerns over education reforms and systemic challenges in both schools and universities.
