Sinkevičius trusts education minister but warns no one is guaranteed: 'No indulgences'

Mindaugas Sinkevičius expressed confidence in the Minister of Education, stating he wants her on his team. However, he cautioned that this trust is not absolute, and no minister, including himself, is guaranteed their position if they fail to perform.

This statement follows a recent ruling by the Lithuanian Supreme Administrative Court. The court declared the Minister of Education's order to add 10 points to the final exam results of high school graduates illegal. An expanded panel of five judges found the order contradicted the Law on Science and Studies. This decision is final and cannot be appealed.

The case was brought before the court following a complaint from members of the opposition Homeland Union – Lithuanian Christian Democrats. Last year, the then-minister, R. Popovienė, argued that the passing grade of 35 points for exams was too high. To address this, the decision was made to add 10 points to all exams except Lithuanian language and literature. Additionally, students who scored between 17 and 20 points on the first part of the mathematics exam were to receive 1 to 5 bonus points. This move faced criticism from the opposition and the Lithuanian Students' Union, who argued it could demotivate high-achieving students.

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I trust the Minister of Education and want to see her on my team. But, yes, there is no guarantee and no indulgence for anyone, including myself – no one will give me indulgences, nor can I give indulgences to any minister if they do not manage their responsibilities.