In order to reduce the shortage of teachers, the Ministry of Education is moving ahead with the development of a new “smart” mechanism. The deadline for the tender is set for May 5.

The system is called Eduplan.ai,is based on Artificial Intelligence and is expected to change the way vacancies in schools are filled.

The platform, which has already been announced by Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki, is in the process of being put out to open tender with the ultimate aim of becoming operational as soon as possible.

The key question is whether a complex process such as school staffing can be made more organised and predictable. Through the use of Artificial Intelligence and interfacing with public platforms, Eduplan.ai attempts to provide an answer.

The system will pull data from sources such as MySchool, SF and Erganis. It will process data on student population, demographic trends and school needs. In this way it will identify gaps and propose solutions in real time.

Despite some 45,000 permanent appointments in recent years and annual hires, the gaps remain and this shows that the problem is not only numerical but also organizational.

How the Eduplan.ai system will work

The Eduplan.ai will collect and analyse large volumes of data. The goal is to more accurately match teachers with the needs of each school.

One of its key features is continuous adaptationwith the system being constantly updated and taking into account new data as it emerges each time.

It will also address persistent difficulties, such as shortages in specific specialties or in remote areas. At the same time, it will be able to respond to unforeseen situations, such as resignations or leaves of absence during the year.

Sofia Zacharaki: “We place special emphasis on areas with increased needs”

“In education, the right planning makes a difference for every child, in every school. With the digital platform Eduplan.ai, we are taking a meaningful step towards a more organized and efficient way of working. For the first time, we are gathering critical data about our student population, demographics and the operation of our schools to get a clear picture of real needs.

This enables us to identify gaps in teachers in a timely manner and make targeted interventions to ensure that every school starts the year with the staff it needs. We place particular emphasis on areas with increased needs or demographic challenges, enhancing equitable access to education for all children.

Eduplan.ai enhances continuity and transparency in the operation of the education system and allows us to plan with stability and responsibility. We continue with a plan to ensure that the school meets the needs of students, teachers and their families,” the Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sport said of the new system.