Cyprus students to hold solidarity actions for French pupils

The Pancyprian Coordinating Committee of Students (PSEM) has announced that students across Cyprus will conduct symbolic acts of solidarity on Thursday, 5 November, during the second school break. This initiative is intended to support French students who have been protesting continuously since 17 September against proposed education budget cuts amounting to 41 million euros.

The student protests in France demand the hiring of additional teachers, the replacement of teaching hours lost due to staff shortages, and the modernization of school infrastructure. PSEM emphasized that the loss of teaching time must not force families to rely on private tutoring based on their financial capacity. They advocate for a public and free education system that ensures equal access and quality for all students.

According to the organization, the core demands of the French pupils—including improved facilities, qualified staffing, and increased student participation in decision-making—are closely aligned with their own educational concerns. Through these actions, PSEM aims to highlight the collective struggle for equitable education systems in both nations.