A teacher who previously had cancer was assigned to work in Paphos despite a medical report

A 41-year-old contract teacher, who previously underwent surgery to remove a tumor in the thoracic spine, was assigned to a school in Paphos despite a medical report warning of the risk of complications during transport lasting more than 20 minutes, reported philenews.

According to the publication, the woman lives in Limassol and cares daily for her mother, who also has health issues. Starting September 1, she will have to travel daily to Paphos — a journey of about 45 minutes, which, according to her and the medical document, may worsen her condition.

She submitted two official complaints through lawyers to the Ministry of Education and the Educational Service Commission (ESC), attaching a neurosurgeon's certificate, but did not receive an immediate response; according to her, an answer only came after numerous phone calls. A representative of the ESC allegedly suggested she relocate to Paphos, which she cannot do due to caring for her mother.

The woman points out that in the past two years, after filing objections, she was assigned closer to her residence; however, this year, a change in the appointment procedure removed contract teachers’ right to appeal if they agreed with the assignment. She asks the Minister of Education and the ESC to review the decision considering the medical report.

Sources note that if the situation does not change, daily long commutes may pose a risk to her health and complicate care for her relative.