Larnaca, Cyprus. Education Minister Athena Michaelidou said investment in sport is an investment in society and the younger generation, as she inaugurated a new gym at Lyceum Dimitrios Vikelas on Friday. She said the project reflects the government’s broader strategy to modernise education through targeted policies and measurable outcomes.
Inauguration and education strategy
Speaking at the inauguration, Michaelidou said the new gym is part of a broader effort to respond to contemporary needs and strengthen schools. She pointed to ongoing education reforms in recent years, describing them as a structured effort involving new infrastructure, institutional changes and improvements reaching every school and student.
Role of sport in schools
Michaelidou said sport plays a central role in shaping well-rounded individuals and fostering values such as discipline, resilience and self-confidence. She said the “Dimitrios Vikelas” gym would serve the needs of sports schools in Larnaca and support student activity in a safe and functional environment.
Funding and future developments
Michaelidou said the €50,000 project is the first in a series of similar developments planned for other districts, as part of a broader policy to upgrade sports schools.
Balancing academic and athletic goals
She said sports schools must balance academic and athletic ambitions, taking into account students’ future plans.
Commitment to upgraded facilities across Cyprus
Michaelidou reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting students, saying the aim is to create schools that meet modern needs with upgraded and fully equipped facilities for both students and teachers across Cyprus. She said the goal is for schools to connect knowledge with the demands of the time, encourage children to discover their talents and provide tools to develop them.
What changes do you think are most important for schools to better support both academic learning and sport?