Education
Every Child has the Right to quality and inclusive learning
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Jump toThe challenge
Education is a fundamental right for every child, and UNICEF is dedicated to ensuring that all children, regardless of their background, have access to quality education in Greece.
Despite significant progress, several challenges persist in the Greek education system. Marginalized groups, including refugees, migrants, Roma children, and children with disabilities and special education needs, continue to face barriers to enrollment and retention in schools. Challenges, such as the need to update curricula, expand teacher training opportunities, and enhance performance in international assessments, highlight the need for systemic improvements. Although inclusion is emphasized in policy, the absence of a comprehensive national strategy hinders effective implementation. Additionally, an increase in bullying instances and the need to foster a more participatory and democratic school culture are affecting students' well-being and learning outcomes.
UNICEF/UNI375472/CANAJ/2020 The Solution
UNICEF is committed to ensuring every child in Greece has access to quality, inclusive education by collaborating with the government, local authorities, and other key stakeholders. Adopting a holistic, rights-based approach, UNICEF aims to address disparities, enhance educational quality, and promote inclusion to support children's learning and well-being.
UNICEF has supported over 26,000 refugee and migrant children across Greece, facilitating access to formal and non-formal education in 65 locations. Significant efforts have been made to build educator capacity, with approximately 6,000 teachers trained in inclusive education practices, digital learning, and blended teaching methodologies. These efforts are complemented by the development of innovative tools and resources, including Accelerated Learning Programmes, Socio-Emotional Learning Frameworks, and online learning platforms such as MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses), ensuring that educational opportunities are tailored to meet diverse needs.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports (MOERAS) and the Ministry of Migration and Asylum (MOMA), UNICEF has co-designed and implemented initiatives to enhance educational inclusion for refugee and migrant children. Leveraging European Union funding, UNICEF is supporting efforts to strengthen national systems and ensure inclusive policies are implemented effectively.
UNICEF’s ongoing work includes providing technical support to the state, facilitating best practice exchanges, conducting surveys, and bridging gaps between ministries to promote cohesive and effective education policies. The organization continues to foster innovation and sustainability by working closely with government and civil society stakeholders to scale up successful models nationally and ensure long-term impact.
By aligning its efforts with national priorities, UNICEF is helping to build an inclusive, equitable, and resilient education system in Greece, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
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