New online programme protecting students from sexual predators
A new interactive programme for safe online surfing at schools was presented on Thursday at the ministry of Education by Minister Andreas Loverdos, Public Order and Citizen Protection Minister Vassilis Kikilias and the head of the Greek Police's cybercrime unit Michalis Sfakianakis.
The programme is being implemented at 600 schools, and will be gradually introduced to the rest of public and private schools in Greece, or a total of 12,500 schools. The programme aims at protecting students from sexual predators.
In a related action, five teachers charged with child pornography will be officially relieved of their duties on Friday pending a final decision on their court cases. Another two who have been irrevocably charged will be formally fired on Friday.
Speaking earlier on Thursday at Mega private TV, Loverdos said he would initiate the process for a change in the law on child pornography by educators because as it stood now ("activity unbefitting an educator"), it carried the same weight as somebody who mishandled school finances. "There is no chance to forgive any of them," he pledged, adding, "If any of them believe their rights are violated, they can go to the Council of State."
At the press conference following the unveiling of the online programme, Loverdos said the ministry is "not meting out justice," but stating that "we do not want such people in the educational system."
