Education and Science, EU – Baltic States, Legislation, Lithuania, Strike

"I regard the situation as politicising and do not understand the incitement not to attend schools. The Ministry of Education and Science Should analyse and ascertain this in detail because based on available information school vouchers in Polish schools are by 40% larger than, for example, in Lithuanian schools," the prime minister told journalists on Wednesday.

Speaking about funding of schools in Vilnius and Salcininkai districts, the prime minister said that allocations per schoolchild to purchase books are by three times higher in Vilnius district and by four times higher in Salcininkai district. Furthermore, classes are not overcrowded in Polish schools. Meanwhile last year the results of the Lithuanian language and literature exam were better in Polish schools compared to Lithuanian ones.

"I fail to understand completely what reasons led to such irresponsible actions. I see no other reason and can say this boldly that politicking has started, but it is unclear why," said Butkevicius.

When asked about facilitation of the Lithuanian language exam for ethnic minorities, the prime minister said it has already been made easier as much as the Constitution allows. Shorter texts are written during exams and more mistakes are allowed to be made.

The prime minister wondered how much easier the exam could get and stated that "knowledge is a treasure" that allows to study in universities and find a good job afterwards.

As reported, some schools of ethnic minorities held a strike on Wednesday demanding for even better education conditions.