Epirus school closures: 33 units suspended due to low enrollment

The Regional Directorate of Education has decided to suspend the operation of 33 school units across the Epirus region due to a shortage of students. The affected institutions include 11 primary schools and 22 kindergartens distributed across four prefectures.

In Ioannina, 11 units will close, consisting of 4 primary schools and 7 kindergartens. Arta faces the largest impact with 13 units suspended (7 primary schools and 6 kindergartens). Additionally, 2 kindergartens in Thesprotia and 7 kindergartens in Preveza will cease operations. This trend reflects a significant decline in the student population, particularly in smaller and mountainous areas.

Similar demographic challenges are driving school mergers and closures in Western Greece, including Achaia, Elis, and Aetolia-Acarnania. Recent official decisions have led to the permanent closure of Ampelokampos Primary School in Elis and the merger of the 19th Primary School of Patras with the 6th Primary School. In Aetolia-Acarnania, several kindergartens are being integrated into remaining active units.