KDH and KU Criticise School Legislation Adopted by Government on Friday

Bratislava, 22 August (TASR) - The Christian Democrats (KDH) and the Christian Union (KU) have criticised the school legislation adopted by the government on Friday, reiterating that the change in school funding will create two categories of children. In addition, according to them, the adoption of the changes will bring about the elimination of church schools. "Robert Fico's (Smer-SD) government is punishing children from religious families for choosing a school that respects their values. It gives 100-percent support to some children and only 80 percent to others. Not because they have worse results or their parents pay less tax. Just because they chose their faith," said KDH, claiming injustice. In addition to the change in school funding, KU also criticised the introduction of gradual compulsory pre-school education for four-year-olds as of 2027 and then for three-year-olds from 2028. At its session on Friday, the government approved a draft law on the financing of schools and school facilities that is aimed at expanding the range of reasons for reducing the normative contribution. Private or religious schools that aren't registered as public education providers could see a 20-percent cut. It also adopted a draft amendment to the Education Act and a draft law on school administration. am/df