The number of primary schools and students in Slovakia is declining and, given demographic trends, expected to drop further, according to the Value for Money Division (ÚHP). It warns that small schools are costly to operate and often deliver weaker academic results.
Currently, two-thirds of schools have fewer than 250 pupils, and around 460 have fewer than 50. Operating these schools costs the state over €100 million annually. The Value for Money Division recommends better planning and potential consolidation, especially where nearby schools have spare capacity. It argues that schools function best with at least two classes per grade, or roughly 400 students total.
The Education Ministry says relevant reforms are included in a draft legislative package now under interdepartmental review.
Source: STVR, TASR
