Athens, Greece – In a massive display of dissent, over 15,000 demonstrators converged in central Athens on Thursday to voice opposition to the Greek government’s proposed introduction of private universities in the country from next year.
The predominantly youthful protesters, gathering outside the University of Athens, echoed chants of “hands off education,” while a prominent banner stretched across the university’s entrance proclaimed, “Their Profits or Our Education.”
The government’s initiative seeks to permit foreign universities to establish branches in Greece, operating within the framework of the national examination system for student admissions. These branches would impose fees but function under a non-profit model. Critics argue that such a move would erode the foundation of public universities, many of which are already grappling with financial challenges, and imperil the accessibility of higher education for future undergraduate students.
Student activist groups have spearheaded a series of demonstrations across Greek cities and have occupied numerous university faculty buildings, compelling the transition of classes and examinations to online platforms.
The proposed legislation is slated for parliamentary deliberation by the end of the month.
“The future of our education system hangs in the balance,” remarked one protester, encapsulating the concerns of many demonstrators. “We cannot allow profit-driven interests to jeopardize the fundamental right to quality education for all.”
