New academic year begins for students across the region

The 2026-2027 academic year begins in Cyprus as students in secondary and technical education return to classrooms. A total of 41,280 students are enrolled in secondary general education, served by 7,200 educators across 62 gymnasiums, 36 lyceums, 10 six-grade schools, and 5 evening schools. Additionally, 890 educators are assigned to technical and vocational education and training programs.

The primary education sector is scheduled to commence later, with teachers returning on September 7 and students entering classrooms on September 14. Statistics indicate that 52,186 students are enrolled in primary schools, including approximately 8,919 to 9,000 first-graders, while kindergartens will host 14,398 to 14,400 children.

Minister of Education Athina Michailidou marked the commencement of the school year by emphasizing the government's commitment to modernizing educational infrastructure and fostering a safe, high-quality learning environment. Her address focused on the importance of critical thinking, democracy, and ongoing educational reforms designed to support the next generation's goals.