The federation issued its statement following an accident involving a substitute kindergarten teacher in Zografou, citing the 19 February 2026 announcement by the First Athens Teachers’ Association. It argues that many school units, particularly kindergartens, operate in unsuitable, non-functional buildings that lack safety certification from the competent authorities.

D.O.E. says that despite the rising number of workplace accidents, the necessary measures have not been taken to ensure safety in schools. It also highlights what it describes as discriminatory treatment of substitute teachers, who, it says, are forced to return to work before they have fully recovered in order to avoid penalties affecting their pay and seniority. The federation describes this as an unacceptable regime that treats substitute teachers as ‘second-class’ employees and as cheap, flexible and expendable staff.

In its demands, the federation calls for:

  • equal rights for substitute and permanent teachers

  • no reduction in salary or seniority for colleagues injured in workplace accidents

  • formal recognition of workplace accidents in the public sector

  • immediate inspections and repairs across all schools, including structural and electrical checks, and safety certification for all school buildings, to ensure safe and functional premises.

______________________________________________

Are you seeking news from Greece presented from a progressive, non-mainstream perspective? Subscribe monthly or annually to support TPP International in delivering independent reporting in English. Don’t let Greek progressive voices fade.

Make sure to reference “TPP International” and your order number as the reason for payment.