Ionian University students protest against downgrading of performing arts degrees

Ionian University students held a protest in San Rocco Square against Presidential Decree 85/2022, which downgrades performing arts degrees. Students from the Department of Audio and Visual Arts and the Department of Foreign Languages, Translation and Interpreting took part along with Fridays For Future Corfu and the Ionian University film group 'Clapperboard'.





In response to the downgrading of degrees from Drama and Performing Arts Schools in Greece, students set up a coordinating committee to assist in the fight against Presidential Decree 85/2022, which downgrades the professional rights of graduates and equates their higher degrees with high school diplomas.

The committee issued a statement saying: "Ionian University students are in solidarity with this protest and our goal is to take whatever immediate actions we can to show our support. There have already been a large number of sit-ins at theatres and schools nationwide. A large number of teaching staff at university performing arts schools have also expressed their opposition to the measure."





Demands

- Immediate amendment to the Presidential Decree and adjustment of performing arts degrees to TE.

- Provision of meals, accommodation, free textbooks, state scholarships and financial support for those at schools supervised by the ministry of Culture.

-- Increase in staff and necessary equipment at state performing arts schools.

- The IMMEDIATE establishment of free public universities and performing arts departments throughout Greece.


CHRISTINA GEREKOU