Michailidou: Strong Criticism of Union Mobilizations in Education

The Minister of Education, Athena Michailidou, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the mobilizations of union organizations regarding the new plan for the evaluation of teachers. Ms. Michailidou argued that these actions are taking place shortly before the Plenary Session of the Parliament, despite the fact that extensive consultation has taken place.

Speaking to Omega, the Minister stressed that consultation cannot be interpreted as satisfying one side, but as imposing positions and blackmail. She also referred to the resistance to change that is observed, as the existing evaluation system is rudimentary and does not adequately support teachers.

Regarding the evaluation criteria, Ms. Michailidou stated that draft versions have been given to the union organizations, but Parliament wants the process to be completed faster. She emphasized that the implementation of the new system will start immediately, with training and formative evaluation, while full implementation will take place in three years.

In addition, the Minister referred to the changes made in the Education Committee of the Parliament, emphasizing that there are no discounts on the bill and the philosophy of the bill does not change. She expressed the view that the goal is to revitalize the public school and support good teachers.

Regarding the reactions of the union organizations, the general secretary of POED, Haris Charalambous, expressed his dissatisfaction with the final text of the bill, as it was formed in the Education Committee, and stressed that it will be submitted to the Plenary Session of the Parliament for voting.