Ilion special school faces criticism over warehouse conditions

Parents of students at the Unified Special Vocational Gymnasium – Lyceum (ENEEGYL) in Ilion, Greece, are expressing deep frustration over the inadequate conditions provided for children on the autism spectrum.

The school, which serves 70 students, is currently operating out of two large warehouses near the National Rehabilitation Center. According to Mani Papoutsi, president of the parents' association, the facilities do not meet the basic needs or dignity of the students. The current setup includes two very small classrooms and a director's office, but lacks on-site toilet facilities. Students are forced to use restrooms in a separate building regardless of weather conditions.

Furthermore, the existing restrooms are reported to be in disrepair, with doors that do not lock and shared facilities for boys and girls, causing embarrassment for the students. Due to the lack of space, many local students from Ilion and Agios Anargyroi are unable to enroll and are forced to commute to other areas like Peristeri or Egaleo to receive education.