Cypriot teachers announce protests over proposed appointment system reforms

Teacher organizations in Cyprus, specifically POED, OELMEK, and OLTEK, have announced a joint protest outside the Presidential Palace on October 8, 2026, at 17:00. This decision follows a deadlock in negotiations with the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Youth regarding planned reforms to the teacher appointment system. The unions argue that the government’s proposed legislative changes fail to secure the professional future of educators who have served for years in public schools, potentially leaving them in a state of employment uncertainty.

Education Minister Athena Michaelidou has labeled the planned mobilization as "entirely inappropriate," noting that the ministry is still in the middle of a consultative process. She revealed that an updated proposal is currently under legal review and will be sent to the organizations within days, well before the scheduled protest. Michaelidou rejected claims of stalling, stressing that the government aims to improve systemic quality while respecting experienced staff. However, she firmly stated that the ministry would not tolerate blackmail or pressure tactics. The unions plan to hold a joint press conference on October 5 to further clarify their position and outline their ongoing strategy.