**Cyprus Pupils Plan Walkout Over School Conditions**
**Nicosia, Cyprus** – The Pancyprian Coordinating Committee of Students (PSEM) has announced a planned walkout for secondary school students on Wednesday, September 16, in protest of ongoing issues related to school conditions. The demonstration is set to occur during the fourth teaching period and aims to address several pressing concerns, including the urgent need for air conditioning installation, the safety of school buildings, and the demand for a lighter curriculum.
PSEM has strategically timed the walkout to coincide with a meeting of the parliamentary Education Committee, emphasizing the need for the Education Ministry to provide "substantive answers" to the students' grievances. The group has expressed frustration over the government's handling of these issues, particularly regarding the timeline for air conditioning installations. The Education Minister previously assured students that the installations would be completed by the end of 2026. However, recent statements from the President of the Republic have suggested that this timeline has been pushed back to the end of the government’s term in 2028.
With the school year having commenced over a week ago, PSEM has reported that many of the problems remain unresolved. The committee has accused the government of repeatedly altering its commitments, leading to growing discontent among students. "We cannot wait any longer," PSEM stated, asserting that humane and dignified classroom conditions are essential and should not be considered a luxury.
In addition to the air conditioning issue, PSEM highlighted ongoing disputes regarding dress codes. Despite circulars issued over the summer that allowed for more relaxed clothing regulations, several school administrations continue to enforce bans on shorts, which has further fueled student dissatisfaction. PSEM noted that their letter to the Ministry addressing these concerns has gone unanswered, adding to the frustration.
The committee also raised alarms about the infrastructure of several schools, which they deem unsafe. PSEM criticized the current curriculum, describing it as overly burdensome and likening the school year to a race to cover material before exams. This situation persists despite previous commitments from the Education Ministry to reduce the curriculum load.
PSEM has characterized the Ministry's attitude as dismissive, suggesting that officials are acting as if there are no significant issues within schools. This perception has contributed to a sense of anger among students, who feel their concerns are being overlooked.
In light of these developments, PSEM has made it clear that they will not back down from their demands and will not accept a status quo that treats the student community with contempt. The planned walkout is seen as a critical step in advocating for necessary changes in the education system.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Education Ministry and the government will respond to the students' demands and the implications of the planned protest. The outcome of the parliamentary Education Committee meeting may also play a significant role in addressing the concerns raised by PSEM and the broader student body.