Slovenia education ministry sparks controversy over new reform council

The Slovenian Ministry of Education, Science and Sport has established a new 26-member expert council to guide upcoming comprehensive education reforms. The council, coordinated by State Secretary Mojca Škrinjar, includes representatives from the business sector, the Catholic Church, and various individuals such as Jože Možina, Aleš Primc, and Janez Juhant.

The appointment has sparked significant controversy. Branimir Štrukelj, a representative of teacher unions, criticized the selection as the ‘pinnacle of political arrogance,’ noting the absence of representatives from pedagogical faculties or the major education union, SVIZ. He expressed concerns that the lack of transparent criteria and the exclusion of the pedagogical establishment could weaken public education and favor private alternatives.

State Secretary Škrinjar defended the appointments, stating the ministry intentionally avoided the ‘pedagogical establishment’ to include experienced principals, award-winning teachers, and business leaders who directly employ graduates. She emphasized that the council is advisory and that the ministry continues to meet with unions and associations of principals.