Commissioner for children's rights critiques school admission and operational processes

Cyprus Commissioner for the Protection of Children's Rights, Elena Perikleous, has released a comprehensive report examining the operations of athletic, music, and interdisciplinary all-day schools (OSDDM). The investigation was launched following numerous public complaints and involved feedback from 155 students and 51 teachers across all districts, alongside an analysis of international best practices.

A central criticism in the report is the deviation from the Cabinet-approved admission process for OSDDM schools. While the government officially mandates a selection process based on portfolio evaluation and personal interviews conducted by a special committee, schools have been utilizing a simple lottery system. The Commissioner warns that this lack of transparency and adherence to protocol risks excluding children with genuine aptitude, favoring those whose parents prioritize the all-day schedule over specific educational goals.

The report concludes that a holistic review of the organizational structure and pedagogical approach of these institutions is necessary. It emphasizes that while these schools contribute positively to student development, structural adjustments are required to ensure that the pursuit of excellence aligns with student welfare and children’s rights protections.