Greece’s Council of State (CoS), the nation’s highest administrative court, has ruled by majority that a newly enacted law permitting the establishment of non-state universities is constitutional. This decision comes after legal challenges were filed by university professors and private college representatives opposing the legislation.
In their ruling, the judges examined Article 16 of the Greek Constitution, which mandates that education is a state obligation, provided exclusively by public institutions that are fully self-governed. However, interpreting this article in the context of evolving European Union laws has paved the way for private universities in Greece, as long as they maintain high educational standards.
President of the Council of State, Michalis Pikramenos, announced that the decision followed extensive deliberations during two plenary sessions focused on the legality of establishing and operating branches of Higher Education Legal Entities (NPIEs) in the country.
The topic of private universities in Greece has sparked significant debate over the years. Proponents argue that introducing private institutions would create competition and enhance educational quality, while opponents fear it would compromise educational standards and favor wealthier students.
Education Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis described the ruling as a “vindication,” emphasizing the importance of breaking down long-standing taboos and ideological barriers. He highlighted that this landmark decision offers more choices and opportunities for students across Greece.
This ruling marks a significant shift in Greece’s educational landscape, signaling a move toward greater diversity in higher education options. The hope is that this will ultimately lead to an enhancement in the quality of education available to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, fostering a more competitive and dynamic academic environment in the country.