Slovenia to gift Constitution and flags to new students

Slovenian authorities have announced a new initiative for the upcoming school year where first-grade students and first-year high school students will receive copies of the Slovenian Constitution. Additionally, first-graders will be presented with the Slovenian flag. The Ministry of Education, Science and Youth aims to use these symbolic gifts to encourage an understanding of constitutional values, civic responsibility, and active citizenship.

The Ministry of Defence is responsible for providing approximately 23,500 flags. The cost for the 46,000 copies of the Constitution is estimated at approximately 16,940 EUR excluding VAT, while the flags will cost roughly 23,997 EUR including VAT.

The initiative has drawn mixed reactions. While government officials emphasize building a connection to the state and community, the Association of Principals and Assistant Principals has raised concerns regarding the appropriateness of giving a text to children who cannot yet read. They suggest that the focus should remain on more pressing educational issues, such as teacher shortages.

In other regions, such as the Zasavje area, municipalities are also preparing gifts for students, including school supplies and books, to mark the occasion.