Greece implements Multiple Textbook system for schools

Greece is implementing a new educational model known as the ‘Multiple Textbook’ system, which aims to move away from a single-textbook approach toward a model that encourages critical thinking and active student engagement. Under this system, schools will choose a primary textbook from a set of approved educational packages, while additional approved materials will be available digitally as supplementary resources to avoid overburdening students with multiple physical books.

The full implementation is scheduled for September 2027, covering all levels from primary school to high school. The 2026-2027 academic year serves as a critical transition period, with new educational packages already undergoing evaluation and accessible via the ‘Melispi’ digital platform.

In the political sphere, the debate over the content of these new textbooks has reached the Greek Parliament. An urgent question regarding the textbooks' content, raised by Dimitris Natsiou, was originally scheduled for discussion but was postponed at the request of Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki. Notably, Nikos Papaioannou, the Deputy Minister responsible for Higher Education, is set to respond to the inquiry instead of Kostas Vlasis, who typically handles primary and secondary education matters.