Cyprus secondary school students have been called to stay out of class on Wednesday, September 16, amid frustration over problems they say remain unresolved more than a week into the new school year.
The protest, announced by the Pancyprian Students’ Coordinating Committee (PSEM), will take place during the fourth teaching period, coinciding with a meeting of the House Education Committee.
Delays to air conditioning
PSEM raised particular concern over delays in installing air-conditioning units in classrooms.
The organisation said assurances had previously been given that the project would be completed by the end of 2026. However, it claimed that recent comments by President Nikos Christodoulides appeared to move the deadline to the end of the government’s term.
Clothing rules and school safety
The students also said some schools continue to restrict the wearing of shorts, despite relevant circulars issued by the Ministry of Education.
PSEM further pointed to safety concerns at certain school facilities, arguing that long-standing infrastructure problems have not been addressed.
Concerns over exam material
The organisation said the amount of material students are required to cover remains excessive, despite commitments to reduce it.
PSEM accused the Education Ministry of dismissing the concerns raised by students and called for safe and humane conditions in schools, a reduction in the curriculum and greater respect for the student voice.
It also demanded substantive answers to the problems affecting the daily lives of pupils.
