The anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Cyprus serves as a catalyst for unity and collective struggle toward our common, non-negotiable goal of ending the occupation and securing the withdrawal of foreign troops, says the Minister of Education, Sports, and Youth, Athina Michaelidou, in her anniversary message to educators, college students, and high school students.
“With a sense of deep emotion, pride, and historical responsibility, our people honor, for yet another year, the anniversary of the proclamation of the independence of the Republic of Cyprus. A historic milestone that sealed our people’s just struggles for freedom and self-determination, establishing our Cyprus as a sovereign and equal state within the international community,” the Minister noted.
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“Our Republic was forged through the sacrifices of the heroes of the National Liberation Struggle of 1955–59 and was preserved by those who vigorously defended Cyprus’s constitutional legitimacy and territorial integrity in the challenges that followed,” she states, adding that “building on this weighty legacy, Cyprus has evolved into a modern state governed by the rule of law that enjoys international recognition and respect.”
“Today, as an integral and institutionally strong member of the great European family, our homeland is an indisputable pillar of stability, a reliable partner that guarantees peace, cooperation, and security in the wider region,” he notes.
“Despite the progress and prosperity of our country, this year’s celebration finds us, once again, facing the same painful reality: the ongoing Turkish occupation. For more than half a century, the barbed-wire fences have flagrantly violated human rights and kept thousands of refugees away from their homes,” emphasizes Athina Michaelidou.
“That is why today’s anniversary is not just about history. It is about the future we want for Cyprus. A future of peace and security, in a free and reunified homeland,” she emphasizes, noting that “the anniversary serves as a catalyst for unity and collective struggle toward our common, non-negotiable goal of ending the occupation and securing the withdrawal of foreign troops.”
“In this effort to bring justice to Cyprus, you, the younger generation, represent the hope and the future of our country,” the Minister of Education points out. “As you grow up with the open wound of a divided homeland, keep history and memory alive. Maintain your connection to the occupied land and our roots. At the same time, look ahead. Give space and strength to knowledge, but also to your critical thinking,” she adds.
“Your daily struggle begins in the classrooms and lecture halls. Armed with integrity, you are called upon to become free-thinking, democratic, and socially conscious citizens, ready to safeguard the statehood of the Republic of Cyprus,” he emphasizes.
“To this end, the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Youth is implementing a profound, qualitative upgrade of our educational system,” states Ms. Michaelidou. “Our goal is to create a modern, student-centered, and inclusive school—an educational environment that systematically cultivates 21st-century skills, sharpens critical thinking, and embraces creativity—one that provides you with the necessary tools so that you are not mere spectators of developments, but dynamic protagonists of tomorrow’s free and prosperous Cyprus,” he emphasizes.
“As we celebrate our country’s Independence today, we renew our shared commitment to keeping our state strong,” notes Athina Michaelidou. “Let us transform historical memory into a daily commitment to responsibility, with the absolute conviction that your successes, your hard work, and your vision will lead our country to even higher levels of development, justice, and progress within our European family,” she adds.
“May this debt serve as a beacon for a continuous struggle for creation, progress, and the ultimate vindication of our Cyprus,” Ms. Michaelidou concludes.
Source: CNA
