The President announced €20.5 million investments in Famagusta schools and the creation of a new sports school

On Monday, President Nikos Christodoulides visited the gymnasium in Paralimni and announced a package of improvements: renovation and equipment for the school worth €5.5 million and the construction of a regional sports school worth €15 million. He was accompanied on the trip by Minister of Education Athina Michaelidou.

According to the President, the choice of Paralimni is linked to the fact that it is part of the Famagusta district, which lies in Northern Cyprus, and that “correcting this anomaly” is a priority of the government. He also noted that the gymnasium is one of the largest on the island with high student performance.

The Minister outlined a series of reforms: revision of curricula with an emphasis on critical thinking, introduction of teacher performance evaluation, and changes in staffing appointments. The government decided to keep schools in villages operating even with only two students, to ensure equal access to education.

Particular attention is given to technical education: this year two technical gymnasiums will open on a pilot basis in Nicosia and Limassol. It was also reported that air conditioning in schools will be expanded — 45% of buildings are now equipped compared to 10% a year ago; the process is planned to be completed by the end of 2026.

Michaelidou emphasized the priority of mental health and the expansion of all-day schools as an alternative to extracurricular lessons. Primary schools enrolled 66,000 children, including 9,000 first graders. For residents, this means expected improvements in infrastructure, more technical programs, and a gradual reduction in the need for additional classes outside school.