The bill of the Ministries of Education and Citizen Protection brings three changes, regarding the enhancement of security on the premises of the Universities but also regarding the admission of candidates to Higher Education.
First one, the introduction of a minimum admission base in university departments, not with an absolute number (e.g. 10), but defined by each section. Specifically, the input base for each section will emerge, according to the draft law, by a percentage (80%-120%) of the average performance of the candidates of each scientific field in the courses examined. The above will apply from this year's Panhellenic Examinations, of 2021. From time to time (National exams 2022), the ministry is planning, In addition, to enable the departments to choose weighting factors for the examined courses.
The second change concerns the limitation of the number of computer options and its completion in two phases. This change, which is also planned -in the end- for the next Panhellenic Games (2022) introduces two phases of computer completion. In phase A., Candidates will be able to complete a certain number of courses in computer science. The number will be derived from 10% of all the departments for GEL and 20% for EPAL. In phase B., Those who have not been admitted to the first phase will participate, without restriction of options and for the positions of the remaining HEIs. Alongside, There will be a computer for the introduction in public IEK, based on the diploma, something that will apply from this year.
Thirdly, a student time limit is introduced. For the 4-year study programs, the limit will be ν + 2. For study programs lasting longer than 4 years, will be ν + 3. The changes will apply to new students, while there will be provision for exceptions (reasons for work, serious health issues, etc.).
The three changes in relation to the academic environment
The bill of the Ministries of Education and Citizen Protection brings three changes, in terms of enhancing security on campus. These relate to the controlled entry into universities and the establishment of security structures, in the establishment of a special Protection Group of a University Institution (ΟΠΠΙ) and to strengthen provisions of disciplinary law. In more detail, the bill provides for controlled entry and exit in the field of universities. Where this is not possible, in universities that e.g.. bordering parks, controlled entry will take place indoors.
For OPPI, provided 1.000 organic positions, which will be distributed and redistributed in the universities according to their needs. This is a team with special training from ELAS, who will wear a special uniform, will be part of ELAS and will cooperate with the rector and vice-rector of each university. The team will have full police duties, but will not carry firearms. In terms of disciplinary law, the bill of the Ministries of Education and Citizen Protection includes provisions for disciplinary offenses and disciplinary penalties, while the establishment of a Student Disciplinary Council is also envisaged. The misdemeanors will be related to the integrity of the exams, up to criminal offenses and a framework of corresponding penalties is provided.
"The bill introduces changes aimed at tackling chronic pathogens of the system and are at the core of New Democracy's election commitments", said the Minister of Education and Religions, Niki Kerameos during a press conference. The Ministers of Education, Niki Kerameos, and Citizen Protection, Michalis Chrysochoidis are currently presenting the draft law of the two ministries, with Title: "Introduction to Higher Education, Protection of Academic Freedom, Upgrading the Academic Environment and other provisions ". The bill is scheduled to be put to public electronic consultation immediately. The minister is also expected to brief on the opening of the schools.
Source: RES-EIA
