Cyprus schools open for the 2026-2027 academic year
On September 14, 2026, the new academic year began in Cyprus for primary and nursery schools. A total of 52,186 students returned to 328 primary schools, including 8,919 first-graders, while 14,398 children attended 274 nursery schools. They are supported by a teaching staff of 5,232 primary and 1,135 nursery educators.
During school visits, President Nikos Christodoulides reiterated that education is a government priority, highlighting an investment of over 132 million euros in infrastructure. He acknowledged student concerns regarding the lack of air conditioning, pledging that all schools will be fully equipped by 2028. Additionally, he announced a 1.5 million euro project to renovate the School for the Deaf starting in January 2027, with a special education reform bill set for Cabinet submission on September 30.
Despite the government's optimistic tone, the Progressive Movement of Teachers and the POED union expressed strong criticism. Educators cited ongoing issues with staffing shortages, administrative gaps in nursery schools, the continued use of temporary prefabricated classrooms, and delays in the air conditioning rollout. While the ministry advocates for a constructive dialogue, unions remain concerned about the impact of new hiring and evaluation systems on the educational environment.