Secondary school students will walk out of their classrooms tomorrow to protest the problems facing their schools.

“A hot-button issue,” the issue of air conditioning, as well as the students’ request to the Ministry of Education to reinstate and enforce the circular allowing them to wear shorts during the summer months due to high temperatures.

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“Especially in schools that don’t have air conditioning yet, not allowing students to wear shorts in the temperatures we’re experiencing makes for ineffective learning when neither the teacher nor the student can concentrate because of the heat.” ^{Despoina Kyprianou, Secretary of PSEM}

The Ministry of Education has responded that all schools in Cyprus will be equipped with air conditioning within a specific timeframe for installation and operation.

“A significant number of schools already have air conditioning, and the project is being expanded gradually, along with the necessary upgrades to the electrical systems in school buildings.” ^{Athina Michailidou, Minister of Education}

Students have also reacted strongly regarding the curriculum, as they consider the reduction promised by the ministry to be negligible.

“In the subjects mentioned above, the curriculum remained the same, and where it was reduced, the cuts were not substantial.” ^{Despoina Kyprianou, Secretary of PSEM}

The Minister of Education clarified that the curricula are being updated and the course load is being gradually reduced.

Regarding tomorrow’s student protest, Athina Michailidou made it clear that children have the right to have an opinion and express their concerns; however, as she emphasized, dialogue is of great importance.

“I am ready to listen to the PSEM, to discuss any concerns, and to inform the children about everything that is already underway.” ^{Athina Michailidou, Minister of Education}

The students’ protest will take place during the fourth class period, as the parliamentary committee on education will be meeting at that time to discuss the issue of air conditioning. The PSEM will also be present at the session.

See the report by Eleni Michael