Nicosia: Education for sustainable development is more important than ever, Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Dr Athena Michaelidou, emphasized during her speech at the ‘European Conference: Whole Institution Approach and Education for Sustainable Development from Policy Vision to Educational Transformation’. The event is held in Nicosia under the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Minister addressed attendees, highlighting the current era characterized by multiple interconnected crises, including climate change, biodiversity loss, social inequalities, and geopolitical instability. She stressed that these challenges permeate educational environments, influencing the questions and concerns of young people and posing significant responsibilities on educators and institutions to prepare learners for an unpredictable and rapidly evolving world.
Dr. Michaelidou pointed out the growing demand from young people for decisive action, urging the creation of structures that empower their voices, encourage participation, and translate their ideas into tangible actions. She highlighted the critical role of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in equipping learners to understand complexity, think critically, act responsibly, and develop competencies for sustainable futures.
She asserted that ESD’s integration into quality education necessitates systemic change rather than isolated initiatives. The Whole Institution Approach, she explained, is key to transforming educational institutions into environments that embody sustainability, democracy, inclusion, and shared responsibility.
Discussing Cyprus’s commitment to the Whole Institution Approach and ESD, Michaelidou mentioned the forthcoming national framework set to launch in September, complete with an accreditation scheme and incentives for educators. She expressed pride in Cyprus being among the few countries with a dedicated structure within the Ministry for ESD, tasked with implementing and coordinating the national strategy across all educational levels.
The Minister emphasized Cyprus’s recognition of sustainability challenges as shared responsibilities, highlighting collaborative efforts with European, regional, and international bodies to enhance ESD policies and practices. She concluded by underscoring Cyprus’s role as a bridge across regions, aligning policy with practice and national priorities with global commitments.