Schools in Greece are closed down in number, as education officials describe the current demographic situation as catastrophic, using the term 'Armageddon'.

In the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year, Greece faces a significant challenge as over 700 schools, including primary schools and kindergartens, are set to close due to a decline in student numbers. This trend is particularly noticeable in the Epirus region in the northwest near the Albanian border, where 43 schools will close, and large parts of the Peloponnese peninsula, with 44 closures.

This nationwide decline is driven by demographic challenges, with Greece recording one of the European Union's lowest fertility rates at approximately 1.3 births per woman. This is well below the 2.1 replacement level needed to maintain population stability.

The exodus of young Greeks, driven by economic hardship and the pursuit of opportunities abroad, has removed much of the population in prime childbearing years, leading to a "brain drain." This demographic shift has been accelerated by the 2008 financial crisis.

As a result, schools failing to meet the student threshold for three consecutive years face permanent closure. This academic year, primary schools are facing the majority of closures, with 324 elementary schools and 358 kindergartens set to suspend operations.

The closures affect schools in rural villages, remote islands, and urban areas, including Athens. The remaining students, particularly in remote areas, are forced to travel distances of up to 50 miles daily to reach alternative schools.

Ministry officials describe the demographic trends in Greece as "terrifying" and "Armageddon," reflecting the severity of the situation. The number of schools closing is a sharp increase from the 247 elementary schools and 312 kindergartens closed in the 2018-2019 school year.

Despite these challenges, the total student population for the upcoming academic year in Greece is approximately 1.21 million. Under Greek law, schools must maintain at least 15 students to remain open.

This crisis in Greek education underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address the country's demographic challenges and stem the tide of school closures.

Schools in Greece are closed down in number, as education officials describe the current demographic situation as catastrophic, using the term 'Armageddon'.