Greek Education Ministry Announces school mergers, new units and special‑education boost for 2026‑27

The Greek Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, led by Minister Sofia Zaharaki, unveiled a strategic plan for the 2026‑27 school year. The plan calls for the creation of new school units, the strengthening of special‑education structures and a comprehensive reorganisation of the existing school network.

In primary education, seven new kindergartens and 31 primary schools will be established, while 70 kindergartens will be merged into 33 units and 12 primary schools into six units due to low enrolment. Additionally, 40 kindergartens and 106 primary schools will be downgraded, and 43 kindergartens and 32 primary schools, most of which have been suspended for years, will be closed.

In secondary education, ten new schools are to open, including a music gymnasium in Orestiada, several evening high schools and specialised gymnasia across the islands and mainland. New secondary classes will also be added to existing institutions to ensure students can complete their education in the same type of school.

The reforms aim to improve the quality of education, make better use of resources, and adapt the school network to current demographic trends, while guaranteeing inclusive, high‑quality education for all students.