Μake us preferred on Google Students, university students and teachers are gathering in central Athens on Thursday, November 5, for a nationwide education rally calling for better conditions in schools and universities.
Participants are scheduled to meet at the Propylaea, near the University of Athens, at 11 a.m. Their demands include increased funding for schools, repairs to aging school buildings and opposition to the introduction of nationwide-style examinations in high school.
They are also protesting against the proposed abolition of Article 16 of the Greek Constitution, which establishes the framework for public higher education.
Nationwide Education Rally in Athens (Danai Davlopoulou/EUROKINISSI)
Other demands include fully staffed schools, smaller class sizes and the repeal of the new framework governing school trips.
Teachers’ federation backs student mobilization
The Federation of Secondary Education State School Teachers (OLME) has voiced its support for the mobilization, saying it stands alongside students and university students defending their right to free public education, access to higher studies and a better future.
In its statement, OLME also called for greater public funding for education, health care, quality of life and research that addresses social needs.
Nationwide Education Rally in Athens (Danai Davlopoulou/EUROKINISSI)
Rally coincides with protests in France
The mobilization also has a European dimension, as it is taking place on the same day as renewed demonstrations and strike action in France.
OLME said the timing offers an opportunity to express solidarity with French workers and young people and strengthen their common efforts through protests and industrial action.
