Nicosia, Cyprus. The education ministry has sent unions and other stakeholders a working document setting out initial proposals to modernise Cyprus’ teacher recruitment system, beginning a consultation process ahead of planned reforms.
Education Minister Athena Michaelidou said the document provides the ministry’s preliminary positions and is intended to support a responsible, evidence-based dialogue aimed at securing the broadest possible consensus before a final proposal is prepared.
Recruitment system changes
Michaelidou described the reform of the teacher appointment system, introduced in 2015, as one of the most significant institutional changes in Cyprus’ education system.
She said the system marked a transition from recruitment based primarily on candidates’ order of registration to one using predetermined and measurable assessment criteria. Its central objective of promoting meritocracy, transparency and objectivity remains unchanged, she added.
Written examination proposals
The ministry’s proposals are based on two main pillars: changes to the written examination process and new recruitment arrangements from September 1, 2027, when the existing appointment lists are to be abolished.
For written examinations, the ministry proposes abolishing the current statistical moderation process so that each examination stands independently. Candidates’ actual scores would be used directly to compile recruitment lists.
Other proposals include removing the current pass-mark requirement, revising the structure and difficulty of examination papers, and simplifying procedures for specialisations requiring multiple subject tests, including philology.
The ministry also proposes publishing sample examination papers in advance, offering targeted training for exam setters and strengthening quality-assurance procedures.
Recruitment examinations would be held every three years, or earlier if necessary, starting in 2027.
Recruitment after 2027
The second part of the reform aims to ensure sufficient teachers are available to fill permanent vacancies and temporary posts after the appointment lists are abolished.
Under the proposal, recruitment would draw from successful candidates on eligibility lists and teachers with existing classroom experience, including permanent-term teachers, contract teachers and substitute teachers.
