Nicosia: Education Minister Athena Michaelidou pledged support for expatriate and enclaved schools during her address at the Annual World Conference of Cypriot Diaspora in Nicosia.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Minister highlighted the positive progress of Greek Cypriot schools in the UK and assured that the State will maintain active support for the diaspora’s educational efforts. This includes aiming to upgrade community education and effectively tackle daily challenges.
She discussed the Cabinet’s decision to provide free Greek language courses for repatriates and their spouses. Additionally, the grant for private secondary schools has been increased from 768 euros to 1000 euros, with eased requirements for beneficiaries, now requiring at least seven years of residing abroad instead of ten.
Regarding schools in enclaved communities in the Turkish-occupied part of Cyprus, Michaelidou noted significant developments. The six-class high school in Rizokarpaso reopened in 2024, marking its first operation since closing after the 1974 Turkish invasion. The kindergarten and primary school also reopened towards the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Kormakitis primary school reopened during the 2023-2024 academic year at the Center of Cooperation, with the kindergarten set to reopen in 2025.
Cyprus has been divided since 1974, following Turkey’s invasion and occupation of its northern third. UN-led peace talks have yet to yield successful results. After the invasion, approximately 20,000 Greek Cypriots remained in their homes in the occupied areas. Over time, the number of these ‘enclaved’ individuals has decreased due to harsh living conditions and restrictions imposed on their daily lives. The occupation regime curtails educational and religious freedoms, along with individual freedoms.
The Minister emphasized the importance of education for preserving enclaved communities. She reminded that special legislation prioritizes the appointment of educators from these communities based on graded criteria. Additionally, students from enclaved communities can study at the University of Cyprus without taking admission exams.