The Polish Episcopal Conference has announced the approval of a new program for religious education in preschools and schools, as detailed in a communiqué following a meeting of the Education Committee of the Polish Episcopal Conference (KEP). This development comes in response to growing concerns regarding the difficult professional circumstances faced by religious teachers, whom the committee describes as being in an unstable position due to harmful and illegal changes implemented by the Ministry of Education (MEN). The statement emphasizes the essential role that religious teachers play in shaping the values and principles for the younger generation, stressing that their daily service to children and youth is invaluable.

The committee expressed deep concern that the subject of religious education is being unjustly marginalized, especially considering the significant dedication and sacrifice that teachers invest in their work. They pointed out that religious instruction has been reduced to a mere one hour per week, is scheduled at the start or end of the school day, and that grades obtained from this subject are not factored into overall academic averages. This reduction and treatment highlight broader issues regarding the value placed on religious education within the Polish educational framework and raise questions about the government's commitment to supporting this vital aspect of holistic education.

In light of these developments, the Education Committee calls for a reassessment of the status and significance of religious instruction in schools, advocating for fair treatment of religious educators. As the new curriculum is implemented, it will be important to monitor its impact on the educational experiences of students and the professional environment for teachers, which may influence public discourse around religious education in Poland and its role in the broader educational landscape.