North Corfu Municipality appeals for immediate removal of containers from Agros Junior High and High School

The Mayor of North Corfu, Giorgos Machimaris, sent an urgent letter to the Ministries of Infrastructure & Transport, Education & Religious Affairs and Building Infrastructure S.A., regarding the immediate removal of six extremely old and unsuitable container classrooms and a WC Unit from the Agros Junior High and High School.

Subject: Appeal for the immediate removal of six extremely old and unsuitable container classrooms and one WC Unit from the Agros Junior High and High School of the Municipality of North Corfu. Recent extreme weather has further deteriorated their condition, making them dangerous for use by pupils and teachers.

Dear Sirs/Madams,

With this letter, I urgently appeal for action regarding the unacceptable condition that has persisted for over 20 years concerning the temporary classroom containers and a single WC unit in use in the yard of the Agros Junior High and High School.

The containers used as classrooms have become completely unsuitable, posing serious risks to the safety, health and well-being of pupils and teachers. This situation is no longer tolerable, as it violates the basic rights of our pupils to safe and dignified education. Specifically, the following issues have been identified:

• Severe Structural Damages:
  The walls have deep cracks, the floors are heavily corroded, and insulation is nonexistent, leading to extreme temperatures inside the classrooms.

• Serious Safety Deficiencies:
  Electrical equipment is hazardous and does not meet basic standards. Additionally, worn-out frames and non-functional doors increase risks for children and staff.

• Unhealthy Environment:
  Accumulated damp, extensive mould, and inadequate ventilation have turned these classrooms into breeding grounds for infections, endangering pupils' health. Damp and mould can cause respiratory problems, allergies, respiratory infections, and irritations to the eyes and nose. They also exacerbate chronic conditions such as asthma and impair students' concentration and performance due to poor air quality.

Classrooms must be safe, hygienic and functional spaces that inspire pupils and allow them to focus on their educational activities without interruption. They must have:

• Sturdy and durable construction that meets safety standards and withstands weather conditions.
• Adequate insulation to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round.
• Modern ventilation and lighting systems to promote pupils' health and productivity.
• Proper electrical equipment that complies with all necessary safety regulations.
• Ergonomic design and contemporary technology to support collaborative and interactive learning.
• Soundproofing and sufficient natural lighting to create an environment conducive to concentration and creativity.

This unacceptable situation has lasted for over two decades, highlighting a lack of planning and sensitivity toward the needs of the educational community. At a time when the demands for quality education are increasing, continuing to use such unsuitable infrastructure is not only an insult but also a direct threat to the future of our children. It is worth noting that the Municipality of North Corfu actively intervenes to maintain and improve school facilities whenever necessary

Dear Sirs,
The student body, educators, the 15-member pupil council, the parents’ association of the Agros Junior High and High School, the Union of Parent Associations of the Municipality of North Corfu, and the Municipality of North Corfu urge you to act immediately. Show the required sensitivity and responsibility toward the needs of the educational community by activating emergency procedures through KTYP S.A. to bypass bureaucratic delays and ensure the swift implementation of necessary interventions, both for short-term safety measures and long-term infrastructure upgrades.

Specifically:
Immediate resolution of the issue through the urgent removal of the six extremely old and unsuitable container classrooms and the single WC unit from Agros Junior High and High School of the Municipality of North Corfu. Temporary measures should be taken to address the interim period until new classrooms are constructed.

We remain at your disposal for any further information or collaboration needed.

Sincerely,
The Mayor of North Corfu,
Giorgos Machimaris

ELENI KORONAKI

Photo: ertnews@gr