It is not the first time that an international survey paints a disappointing picture of the Greek education system. Despite the repeated reform efforts of the past few years, we have not managed to establish a national strategy for education. While everyone recognizes the importance and role of educations in the financial and productive recovery of the country, they are unable to help shape a mutually-accepted framework of changes that will take advantage of the country’s latent scientific forces of the country and contribute towards the modernization of provided knowledge.
Even though there are islets that are already distinguishing themselves and despite the many Greek university graduates excelling, the overall impression of higher and secondary education does not reflect its current scientific and technological capabilities. Political delays and unionist reactions have repeatedly subverted the many efforts to adapt education to the needs of the time and the country.
It is truly a shame when Greek scientists and students excel abroad and cannot take advantage of their skills and knowledge in their homeland. We recently realized this when distinguished academics from abroad selflessly offered to help in the reconstruction of Greek universities.
Neither the country, nor the new generation that has suffered immensely from the crisis have room of other missed opportunities. It is time that the political system and the academics assumed their responsibilities and contribute towards all the consensual processes that will bring about the changes that education desperately needs. Beyond political or unionist consideration, they have the duty, responsibility and obligation towards the new generation to make the necessary changes and break from the past so that our education system receives the care that it deserves.
TO VIMA
