Nicosia, Cyprus. The House education committee on Wednesday met with members of disability organisations to discuss new legislation for special education, criticising the government over alleged inaction. MPs said the changes require political will, long-term planning and significant investment.
Calls for investment and strategic planning
Committee chairman and Diko MP Pavlos Mylonas said political will was needed from the executive branch, political parties and the House of Representatives to secure funding, including “the investment of billions,” to meet the goal of inclusive education.
Mylonas said the education ministry was expected to proceed with necessary amendments that had been reviewed at the education committee, adding that evaluating implementation would take time. He said public schools require investment and that inclusive education cannot be implemented immediately.
He called for strategic planning and political commitment, saying the political leadership should decide on investment over a period of time so that children who can and want to can live with dignity within school units.
Akel criticism of legislation and lack of timelines
Akel MP Andreas Kafkalias criticised existing legislation and the broader education system, saying they do not provide adequate support for disabled students.
He said commitments by previous and current governments to introduce new legislation had not been fulfilled, and that the committee heard about new procedures and promises but no specific timelines for legislative changes.
Kafkalias accused the government and the education ministry of not doing their job, saying delays had worsened problems including overcrowding and the issue of continuing education for disabled students over the age of 21. He said it was evident in practice that persons with disabilities and their education are not among the government’s priorities.
What changes do you think should be prioritised to improve support for disabled students in public schools?