MSG Director Admits Communication About Jurmala Branch Closure Could Have Been Better

Reorganization Plan and Protests

The director of Murjani Sports Gymnasium (MSG), Čevers, admitted on Thursday that communication regarding the reorganization of the Jurmala branch could have been better. From the next academic year, this branch will cease operations, and training opportunities in rowing sports will be provided at MSG's Specialized Rowing Sports School in Lielupe.

A small group of protesters, including coaches and students' parents, gathered outside the Ministry of Education and Science (IZM) on Thursday to express dissatisfaction with the planned changes.

Evaluation and Information

Čevers stated that the evaluation began as early as 2023, with specific proposals developed last year. He claimed that employees, students, and their parents were informed multiple times about the planned changes, while admitting that communication could have been more regular.

Future for Students and Staff

The director explained that students who wish to continue their studies at MSG and engage in rowing sports will be able to train at the Lielupe rowing school. For those who find it difficult to regularly commute to Lielupe, there will be an option to study and live in Murjani, where general physical training and general education will be provided, while specialized rowing training will take place in Lielupe.

In the coming days, employees will receive notices regarding changes to their employment. Some coaches are planned to be transferred to the Lielupe base, and students may continue training with their current coaches. Some technical staff and general education teachers will also be offered vacancies in other branches of the gymnasium.

Ministry's Explanation

In a statement released on Thursday, the IZM emphasized that the Jurmala branch has only ten students, and the cost per student is several times higher than in other gymnasium branches. The saved funds are planned to be redirected to improving the quality of sports work, student development, and well-being.

The ministry stressed that as a result of the reorganization, no student will lose the opportunity to continue rowing, canoeing, or kayaking and obtain a secondary education. General secondary education teachers have been offered work at MSG, while the reorganization of technical personnel will comply with the Labor Law, ensuring social guarantees.