ATHENS (Agencies) – Thousands of students and teachers staged demonstrations across Greece on Wednesday, demanding increased education funding, improved school facilities and smaller class sizes amid growing economic pressures.
Police estimated that around 10,000 people gathered in central Athens and surrounding areas, while rallies were also held in other cities. Protesters called for accessible public education and expressed solidarity with similar demonstrations across Europe.
The protests have increased pressure on Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’ government as households struggle with high rents, rising energy bills and stagnant wages.
Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki acknowledged students’ concerns and said projects worth more than €733 million were underway to improve student accommodation and educational facilities.
The demonstrations also disrupted some school and hospital services as teachers and healthcare workers joined strikes over salaries and staffing shortages.
Although Greece has recovered from its debt crisis, many young people continue to face financial difficulties, particularly because of rising housing costs and declining purchasing power.
