Cypriot students to stage walkout over school conditions

The Pancyprian Coordinating Committee of Students (PSEM) has announced a one-hour walkout from classes for Wednesday, September 16, 2026. The protest, scheduled for the fourth teaching period, coincides with a session of the parliamentary Education Committee. Students are demanding urgent improvements to school infrastructure, the reduction of the curriculum, and a resolution to the ongoing conflict regarding summer school attire.

A central point of contention is the installation of air conditioning units in classrooms. PSEM representatives argue that the government has repeatedly backtracked on its promises. While the Ministry of Education had initially pledged to complete the project by the end of 2026, President Nikos Christodoulides recently signaled that the timeline has been extended to the end of the current government's term in 2028. Additionally, students report that existing air conditioning units in some schools remain non-functional, while other schools still prohibit the wearing of shorts despite ministry circulars allowing flexibility.

The walkout aims to pressure the government to provide concrete, immediate solutions rather than further delays. While the school administration and some political commentators suggest the protests may be politically motivated, student leaders maintain that dignified classroom conditions are a basic educational right rather than a luxury.