Cyprus implements new educational protocol for hospitalized primary school children

Starting with the 2026-2027 academic year, the Cypriot Ministry of Education has implemented a new formal protocol for primary school children suffering from hematological and oncological conditions. The framework, announced by Minister of Education Athina Michaelidou in response to a query from MP Andreas Apostolou, provides structured educational support for students who cannot attend physical classes due to medical reasons. This includes hospitalized children at the Makarios Hospital as well as those receiving treatment abroad or at home, replacing previous reliance on private voluntary initiatives.

The policy was approved by the Council of Special Education and Education and aims to ensure continuity in learning. Key features include 'bedside teaching' for students unable to leave their hospital wards. Currently, the initiative is limited to hematological and oncological patients, as they represent the majority of hospitalized minors. The Ministry plans to evaluate the program's effectiveness throughout the year with the intention of eventually expanding it to all primary school students who are unable to attend regular classes for health-related reasons. Future developments may also address similar needs for students in secondary education.