“My name is Sophia Zacharaki and I am an English teacher. With disarming simplicity, the Minister of Education introduced herself today to the students of Xanthi’s schools, after the holy water blessing. Avoiding the ‘formal’ words, which one expects to hear on similar occasions, she also spoke about the years she worked in schools, passing the message that she has personal experience of the educational process, amusing any impressions that she is far from the reality of the school ‘trapped’ in an office.

At a time when the debate about the need for deep renewal in schools has opened up, the minister was quick to create an atmosphere of intimacy with the children.

The choice of Xanthi was a conscious one and the presence of Ms. Zacharaki in this school community was an opportunity to highlight the importance of the new programs, the digital tools being introduced and the infrastructure that will strengthen public schools. The reference to the 431 schools that have been upgraded, the operation of the 12 new public schools and the creation of programs with digital tools and innovative activities reflect a major and collective effort by the Ministry of Education to make substantial changes in education. “You wouldn’t believe how many of us worked together to get everything ready,” he went on to say. “There is a huge amount of preparation for the opening of almost 14,000 schools across the country.”
he stressed.

Specifically on the value of the Old Schools, he pointed out that they are a ‘shining example’: “It is important that the Greek Prime Minister chose Xanthi to create one of the 12 new Onassis schools, which introduce in public education creativity groups and afternoon activities, new digital tools, upgraded infrastructure, while this school also participates in the new technical intelligence programme,” Zacharaki noted, adding: “Here at the public Onassis High School, you will also have remedial teaching. So you will also have less need for studying in the afternoon. And of course there is the digital tutorial,” the Education Minister noted, urging children to love the new school and to take care of their physical condition and mental health.

Referring to the need for equality of opportunity so that every child, regardless of place and social class, has access to quality education and creative development, the Minister said: “It is important that here in Xanthi and throughout Greece you have opportunities. For me, equality of opportunity is crucial. Wherever a child is, wherever he or she is born, whatever school he or she goes to, we have to give you equal opportunities.” At the same time, he urged children not to see high school as just an antechamber to the national exams, but as an opportunity to enjoy school and realise their potential.” The minister went on to note that the ministry is placing great emphasis on teacher training and the use of innovative tools, such as the digital tutorial and the multiple textbooks, which will be available in digital form from ’26 and in colour form from ’27. “We won’t stop there,” he said, “we want a new high school based on creativity, innovation and skills development, not just exam preparation.” “I close with a sincere wish for a good year of progress and that all your dreams, whatever they may be, come true,” she concluded.