The piece outlines the impact of the Minimum Admission Base (MAB) established in 2021, which has led to a significant drop in student numbers in low-demand university departments across Greece. Factors influencing this decline include the relevance of academic subjects and the geographical location of the departments, with those located far from major urban centers facing particularly low enrollment figures.

The author emphasizes that these low-demand departments are at an existential risk, as the substantial number of vacant positions threatens their operational viability, pushing them closer to potential closure. The ongoing demographic changes, coupled with the establishment of private universities, are predicted to contribute further to a contraction in public university offerings, which ultimately impacts the educational landscape.

In conclusion, the article highlights the urgent need for strategic planning to address the challenges faced by these university departments, ensuring that they adapt to changing educational demands and remain sustainable in the face of shrinking student populations. Without intervention, these departments may not survive the pressures they currently face, underscoring a crucial moment for higher education in Greece.