Nicosia: The Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting multilingualism as an essential element of the educational framework, with Minister Athena Michaelides announcing the Weeks of the German Language. Speaking at a press conference in Nicosia, she underscored the importance of language competence in fostering personal fulfillment, employability, active citizenship, and social inclusion within the modern student-centered school system.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the German Language Weeks, scheduled from November 10 to 29, will include various events aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of the German language and culture. On November 12, students from the Pilot Programme of German language will participate in a special programme at the Goethe Institut in Nicosia. Additionally, Gymnasium students will engage in an interactive workshop on the history of Germany and the Berlin Wall, while Lyceum students will visit both the German Embassy and the Goethe-Institut.
Minister Michaelides emphasized the advantages of learning German, citing its role in opening doors to academic and professional opportunities, as well as facilitating global engagement. She highlighted German’s prominence in the European Union and its significance in science, culture, and economic exchanges. The Minister also expressed the Ministry’s intention to collaborate with the Goethe Institut to introduce recognized certification for German language proficiency, which is anticipated to enhance the value of German studies and motivate learners further.
The press conference, co-organized by the Ministry of Education with the Embassies of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, as well as the Goethe Institut Cyprus, marks the 2025 iteration of the Weeks of the German Language. The events aim to invite participation from students, teachers, families, and the broader public in celebrating the German language and the cultures of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
In a press release, the embassies and Goethe Institut highlighted this year’s theme, ‘Stimmen and Geschichten’ (Voices and Stories), which focuses on everyday narratives and diverse perspectives that have shaped society in German-speaking countries and Cyprus. The initiative seeks to foster dialogue and inspire reflection through cultural experiences such as literature readings, film screenings, discussions, music, and culinary events.
The programme is set to commence on November 10 with a film screening and academic exchange, featuring the film ‘Ingeborg Bachmann – Journey into the Dessert’. Other highlights include a Swiss Fondue evening, lectures, and screenings of award-winning films like ‘Peacock’ and ‘Late Shift’. The musical highlight features the German jazz trio Tango Transit collaborating with Cypriot musicians in a concert on November 19.
Further enriching the cultural exchange, the Limassol International Book Fair will host discussions and readings with German authors on November 22 and 23, followed by a screening of ‘The Teachers’ Lounge’ on November 24, an acclaimed film addressing educational challenges.