**All-Day Schools Expand as Government Increases Education Budget**
In a significant move to enhance the educational landscape in Cyprus, the government has announced an expansion of the all-day school program, increasing the number of participating schools from 220 to 381. This announcement was made by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou during a press conference at the presidential palace on Tuesday, following a cabinet meeting focused on education reforms ahead of the new school year set to begin in September.
The expansion of the all-day schools comes with a substantial increase in funding, with the program's budget now reaching approximately €6 million. Minister Michaelidou emphasized that the government's initiative is not solely about increasing the number of schools but also about making meaningful improvements to the overall educational experience. "Our action is not merely just numerical increase, but rather substantial improvement, since we have made great effort towards improving the working conditions of our teachers," she stated.
As part of this initiative, teachers in the all-day program will now hold contracts issued through the educational service committee, which aims to provide more stability and support for educators. Additionally, structured schedules will be implemented, allowing for a more organized approach to teaching. School headmasters will now oversee both morning and afternoon lessons, ensuring continuity and coherence in the educational process. Furthermore, ministerial inspectors will conduct evaluations to maintain high standards within the program.
The all-day school initiative builds on a successful pilot scheme that was launched at the Ayios Dhometios gymnasium in Nicosia. This pilot program introduced an optional all-day schedule for a select group of first-year pupils, combining academic support in subjects such as mathematics and Greek with creative activities like sports, art, and theatre. This multifaceted approach is designed to engage students holistically, catering to both their academic and personal development.
The all-day school program is part of a broader European Union initiative aimed at creating an 'educational area' that addresses educational challenges across member states. One of the key goals of this initiative is to reduce the percentage of fifteen-year-olds classified as low achievers in reading, mathematics, and science to below fifteen percent by 2030. Additionally, the program aims to decrease the early school leaving rate to below nine percent.
The European Commission has highlighted the benefits of all-day schooling, noting that it not only helps to keep children safe but also supports parents, particularly single mothers, by alleviating the burden of after-school care. By providing a structured environment for children throughout the day, the program allows parents to remain in the workforce, contributing to the overall economic stability of families.
The expansion of all-day schools is seen as a critical step in improving educational outcomes in Cyprus. With increased funding and a focus on enhancing teacher working conditions, the government aims to create a more supportive and effective educational environment for both students and educators. As the new school year approaches, the emphasis will be on implementing these changes effectively to ensure that the benefits of the all-day school program are realized across the country.
In conclusion, the government's commitment to expanding the all-day school program reflects a proactive approach to addressing educational challenges and supporting families in Cyprus. With the backing of increased funding and a clear focus on quality improvement, the initiative is poised to make a positive impact on the educational landscape in the coming years.