Secondary school students called to walk out over unresolved school issues

Nicosia, Cyprus. Secondary school students have been called to walk out of class on Wednesday over unresolved issues including delayed classroom air conditioning, infrastructure safety concerns and exam workloads.

The protest, announced by the national students’ coordinating committee, Psem, will take place during the fourth teaching period and coincide with a meeting of the House education committee.

Air conditioning delays

Psem said frustration had built up one week into the new school year, with several issues raised by the organisation remaining unaddressed.

It expressed particular concern over delays in installing air conditioning units in classrooms, saying assurances had previously been given that the project would be completed by the end of this year.

The organisation said earlier remarks by President Nikos Christodoulides appeared to move the deadline to the end of the government’s term, by 2028.

Education ministry figures show significant differences between districts. Famagusta has fully equipped 65 per cent of primary schools, while Paphos and Nicosia stand at 16 per cent and 24 per cent respectively.

School rules and safety concerns

Psem said some schools continue to restrict students from wearing shorts despite education ministry circulars allowing them.

It also raised safety concerns at some school facilities, stating that infrastructure problems affecting pupils have remained unresolved for years.

Exam workload

On examination material, Psem said the volume students are required to cover remains excessive despite commitments to reduce it.

The organisation accused the education ministry of dismissing students’ concerns and called for a reduction in curriculum content and greater respect for the student voice.