Session Profile: Ester Karuse
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary sitting
2025-09-15
Political Position
The most crucial issue is the crisis in the accessibility of upper secondary education and the unequal opportunities afforded to young people, which is being treated as a systemic problem. The political stance is sharply critical of the state’s inability to guarantee school places for everyone, demanding immediate reaction and preparation. The focus is on results-based governance and ensuring equitable opportunities for youth, in order to prevent Estonia as a whole from losing out.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the education sector, focusing specifically on the shortage of upper secondary school places and the limitations facing vocational training. Demographic data is utilized, referencing the difference in the number of children born in 2009 and 2010, to forecast the worsening of the admissions crisis. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of having a holistic overview, accurate forecasts, and robust cooperation with local municipalities.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is urgent and serious, highlighting the lack of awareness among young people and parents, as well as the emotional exhaustion caused by unhealthy competition. Logical arguments are presented regarding the state's obligation to ensure compulsory schooling, but the tone remains compassionate and cautionary, stressing that the problem must be addressed "immediately."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity demonstrates proactivity, as the inquiry regarding the accessibility of education was submitted already before the end of the spring session on June 17. The current action is the discussion of this inquiry at the plenary session, the goal of which is to find solutions before the next admissions period.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The criticism is directed at the state and the responsible authorities, citing a systemic problem and a lack of preparation regarding the provision of educational places. The critique is policy- and procedure-based, focusing on the state's inability to fulfill its legally mandated obligation to guarantee compulsory education.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The speaker strongly emphasizes the need for cooperation, demanding the involvement of the state, local governments, schools, and private schools in finding solutions. Satisfaction is expressed when the minister confirms negotiations with the City of Tartu regarding the creation of new places, demonstrating an openness to constructive solutions.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is broad-based, addressing issues both in major centers (Tallinn, Harju County, Pärnu, Tartu) and in rural areas where the number of small high schools is being reduced. Separately, solutions and potential advantages are being sought specifically for young people in Tartu regarding the continuation of their education.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Not enough data
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the accessibility of education and equal opportunities for young people facing uncertainty and injustice. It is stressed that education must serve as the foundation for equal opportunities, and the state must be capable of guaranteeing mandatory schooling until the age of 18.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on oversight, starting with a formal query (interpellation) directed at the Minister of Education. The priority is ensuring that the admissions crisis is not repeated next year, which requires the opening of new high school classes, expanding the capacity of existing schools, and providing realistic guidance for vocational training.
3 Speeches Analyzed