'Private university' bill protested in Greece

Gathering in the capital Athens, students and instructors marched to the Parliament building, chanting slogans against private universities.

The protesters expressed their opposition to the opening of private universities and demanded a larger share of the budget be allocated to education.

EXAMS DISRUPTED AT UNIVERSITIES

Education in many faculties has been blocked by protesting students during the demonstrations, which have been ongoing for approximately 7 weeks. Due to the university "occupations" by protesting students, exams in some faculties have been held online, while in others, they could not be held at all.

There are no private universities in Greece. Diplomas from educational institutions that provide services at the higher education level under the name of "colleges" are not recognized in the country.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced in his speech before the Cabinet meeting held on December 20, 2023, that a new legal regulation was being prepared to allow the opening of private universities in the country. Since that day, the bill regarding private universities, which has been on Greece's agenda, has led to protests organized by students and instructors on the streets.

News Source: AA