Deputy Minister answers evasively to Zeybek’s question on Minority High School

MP Hüseyin Zeybek brought the long-standing building issue of the Xanthi Minority Middle School and High School to the Greek parliament, only to receive evasive responses from Deputy Minister of Education Zeta Makri.

During the parliamentary session on Monday, December 16, Zeybek emphasized that the school has been operating in a 19th-century tobacco warehouse, which is inadequate for proper education. He stressed the need for a new building and reminded the chamber of last year’s student protests against shift-based education due to the building’s limitations.

Zeybek proposed a temporary solution, suggesting the allocation of a state-owned building on the same street while awaiting the construction of a new facility. He also criticized the lack of responses to previous applications and demanded concrete plans from the Ministry of Education.

Deputy Minister’s Controversial Reply
In response, Deputy Minister Zeta Makri dismissed the need for a new school building, claiming the existing facility is safe and sufficient, based on reports from the School Building Suitability Commission. She argued that the student population does not justify new construction and shifted responsibility away from her ministry:

“This matter does not fall under our ministry’s jurisdiction. It would be wrong to direct your questions to us. You and your colleagues should address the appropriate institutions.”

Makri further alleged that the school committee failed to implement the commission’s recommendations, deflecting blame while repeating that the building met all safety requirements.

Zeybek: “This Attitude is Unacceptable”
Frustrated by the minister’s evasions, Zeybek took the floor again, criticizing Makri for avoiding responsibility and invited her to visit the school in person to witness its poor condition. He pressed for clarification:

“Who is the responsible authority? We seek accountability. You are passing the issue between institutions. If something happens tomorrow, you will be responsible.”

Makri repeated her claims, insisting the state had supported the school for decades while offering no real solutions. Her dismissive stance has sparked strong reactions among the minority community, who view it as a failure to address their longstanding concerns.