Cypriot students stage walkout over school conditions and broken promises

Secondary school students across Cyprus, led by the Pancyprian Coordinating Committee of Students (PSEM), staged a one-period walkout on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The protest, timed to coincide with a meeting of the Parliamentary Education Committee, targeted unresolved issues including the delayed installation of air conditioning, inadequate infrastructure, school dress code policies regarding shorts, and a heavy curriculum. Students expressed deep frustration over shifting government timelines; while initial pledges promised air conditioning completion by the end of 2026, recent statements attributed to the President have reportedly pushed the completion date to 2028.

Support for the students came from the teachers' union OELMEK, which acknowledged that many of the concerns—particularly regarding health and safety in classrooms—are shared by educators. Education Minister Athina Michaelidou stated that the government is working to address these issues through an ongoing, phased plan for infrastructure upgrades and air conditioning installation. She emphasized the importance of dialogue over walkouts. Students maintain that they will not settle for empty promises and continue to demand immediate, substantive improvements to ensure dignified learning conditions.