Parliamentary investigation into school infrastructure and safety concerns across Cyprus

On October 7, 2026, the Parliamentary Committee on Education and Culture launched an investigation into the deteriorating state of school infrastructure across Cyprus. Committee Chairman Chrysanthos Savvides highlighted critical shortages, identifying approximately 469 prefabricated classrooms currently in use, a figure estimated to be equivalent to the needs of 20 new schools. The discussion also addressed inadequate sports facilities, accessibility barriers for students with disabilities, and concerns regarding safety certificates for existing buildings. Stakeholders, including parents and unions, criticized the lack of sufficient funding and staff within the Ministry of Education’s Technical Services, noting that maintenance budgets often fall far short of real needs.

Following the parliamentary briefing, committee members conducted on-site visits to schools in the Limassol district, including the 3rd Primary School and Kindergarten in Ypsonas, where overcrowding and substandard conditions were observed. During a recent rain event, students at the Ypsonas facility had to be relocated due to water leaks and potential electrocution risks. In response, Minister of Education Athina Michaelidou stated that the facility recently passed a fire safety inspection and received a certification. The Ministry announced long-term plans to alleviate overcrowding through the construction of new schools in the Ypsonas and Kouris regions, emphasizing that safety remains their primary focus.