Significant school closures are anticipated across Greece as the country grapples with a sharp decline in its student population. According to recent figures from the Ministry of Education, the total number of students enrolled in primary, secondary, and vocational education is expected to drop to approximately 1.21 million for the 2025–2026 academic year. This represents a decrease of over 150,000 students compared to the 1.36 million enrolled during the 2018–2019 academic year.
The concerning trend reflects a gradual decline, with the ministry’s data indicating that the numbers worsen annually. In primary schools alone, enrolment fell from 599,406 students in 2018–2019 to 506,700 in the current academic year, 2024–2025. Projections suggest that this figure will diminish further to 487,462 by 2025–2026.
Impact on Greece’s Educational Landscape
The anticipated closures of hundreds of schools highlight a deepening demographic crisis in Greece. The declining birth rate, coupled with emigration and shifting population dynamics, has resulted in fewer students entering the educational system. The Ministry of Education’s findings reveal that this trend is not isolated to a particular region but is widespread across the nation.
Local communities are likely to feel the effects of these closures, as schools serve as essential hubs for families and contribute to local economies. The loss of educational institutions may lead to increased travel for students, further straining families and potentially resulting in greater disparities in access to education.
Addressing the Challenges Ahead
As Greece confronts this demographic challenge, the government and educational authorities will need to formulate strategies to adapt to the changing landscape. Potential solutions could include consolidating resources among schools, enhancing educational programs, and attracting families to settle in regions with declining populations.
Experts stress the importance of addressing the underlying issues contributing to the demographic decline, such as improving job opportunities and living conditions to encourage families to remain in the country. The upcoming years will be critical for policymakers as they work to ensure that Greece’s educational system remains robust and accessible to future generations.
The figures released by the Ministry of Education serve as a wake-up call, urging stakeholders to take immediate action to mitigate the effects of this demographic shift. Without intervention, the impact on Greece’s educational framework could become even more pronounced, leading to long-term consequences for both students and society as a whole.
