Challenges in the expansion of optional all-day schools in Cyprus

The Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth of Cyprus has reported a significant expansion of the optional all-day school system, which now encompasses 383 units compared to 220 in the 2022-2023 academic year, representing a 74% increase. This growth is accompanied by major structural reforms, including the abolition of service purchasing for staffing and a four-week extension of the program's operation. Ministry officials emphasize that these efforts are part of a strategic government plan to enhance public education and support families.

Despite the rapid growth, the program faces severe staffing shortages, with 115 teacher positions remaining vacant well into the school year. The Educators' Union (POED) has characterized this as the worst year in terms of staffing, noting that the situation has forced the Educational Service Commission to issue a temporary list of appointees, including 2026 graduates, for the first time in decades. The Parliamentary Committee on Education recently held discussions on these challenges. While officials acknowledged the necessity of the reforms, they are currently coordinating with the Educational Service Commission to fill remaining vacancies and reduce these operational hurdles for the upcoming year.