More Greek schools adopt IB program

The government will introduce the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in 15 public high schools starting in 2026, expanding beyond its initial plan for five institutions, officials announced Monday.

The selected schools include nine in Athens, three in Thessaloniki, and one each in Iraklio, Patra and Volos. Students in their final two years of high school will take IB courses in English, with instruction provided by current teachers trained for the program.

The IB curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, requiring students to complete coursework, examinations, and independent projects. Graduates will be eligible to apply to universities abroad, as well as private and select public institutions in Greece. However, spots at Greek public universities will be limited for IB diploma holders.

According to an official from the Institute of Educational Policy (IEP), the key benefits of the IB, beyond access to top international universities, include fostering critical thinking and research skills in students, as well as preparing them for demanding academic and professional environments.

As the same official noted: “The IB in public schools brings a new perspective to public education and the future of our children. It is a bridge that connects their talent and ambitions with a world full of opportunities. It is proof that Greek education can be competitive, outward-looking, and modern.”

Initially launched in Switzerland in 1968, the IB program is now offered in more than 5,900 schools across 160 countries. Greece’s move aligns with a global trend of integrating IB into national education systems.

The program will coexist with the national curriculum, allowing students to choose between IB and the traditional Greek high school diploma. Education officials project that more schools will adopt IB after 2027.

Source: pagenews.gr