Commissioner for Children's Rights releases report on specialized school operations

The Commissioner for the Protection of the Rights of the Child, Elena Pericleous, has published a report critically reviewing the operational framework, organizational structure, and pedagogical orientation of Athletic Schools, Music Schools, and all-day schools for interdisciplinary learning (OSDDM). The study was prompted by numerous public complaints and involved the collection of input from 155 students and 51 teachers across various districts to assess the institutions' effectiveness in nurturing student talents.

A central finding of the report concerns the admissions process for OSDDM programs. Although the Council of Ministers originally approved a selection method based on file assessment and personal interviews, schools have defaulted to a lottery system in practice. The Commissioner warns that this lack of transparency and departure from established procedure may exclude children with genuine interest in the programs, while favoring those primarily seeking all-day care. The report highlights the need for comprehensive reform to ensure that the pursuit of excellence and the protection of student rights remain at the forefront of the educational system.

While the Commissioner acknowledges the positive contribution of these institutions to student development, she calls for a systemic review to address identified operational weaknesses. The report remains a focal point for upcoming administrative decisions regarding the management of these specialized educational sectors.