**Prefabricated Classrooms Necessary, Education Minister Says**
In a recent statement, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the use of prefabricated classrooms in public schools, emphasizing their necessity in certain circumstances. Speaking on Monday, she clarified that these temporary structures are not inherently negative, especially when utilized to alleviate overcrowding or to accommodate students while permanent school facilities undergo upgrades or expansions.
Michaelidou pointed out that specific areas in Cyprus are experiencing rapid population growth, leading to an increased demand for classroom space. Additionally, schools with a rising number of students from migrant backgrounds are particularly in need of additional facilities. "Until new schools are built and upgraded facilities are available, we must have suitable prefabricated classrooms, always with the safety of children as our priority," she stated.
Her comments came in response to a report from the Audit Office, which highlighted the extensive use of prefabricated classrooms and raised concerns regarding planning, oversight, and the management of school infrastructure. The report indicated that in many cases, these temporary classrooms have become a long-term solution to the issue of overcrowding, which has sparked discussions about the sustainability and appropriateness of such measures.
Michaelidou welcomed the findings of the Audit Office, noting that the ministry had already provided its insights, which are included in the report's appendix. She acknowledged the report's recognition of the need for prefabricated classrooms while cautioning against allowing them to become permanent fixtures in the educational landscape. "For us, all of the Audit Office’s recommendations are an important tool for improvement," she remarked, highlighting the excellent cooperation between the ministry and the Audit Office. She added that the reports generated by the Audit Office serve as a valuable guide for shaping ministry policy.
Addressing safety concerns associated with prefabricated classrooms, Michaelidou revealed that the ministry's technical services had issued a circular mandating all school boards to conduct thorough inspections of every school under their jurisdiction. This includes a comprehensive review of all classrooms, not just the prefabricated units. She urged schools to address any identified safety issues immediately, without waiting for prior approval, with the education ministry committing to cover the costs of necessary repairs.
In her address, Michaelidou also highlighted the government's recent efforts to improve school infrastructure. She noted that over the past three years, new school buildings have been delivered, and an extensive investment program has been drafted for the next three years. A total of €60 million has been allocated through the state’s three-year fiscal framework, with an additional equivalent amount expected from European funding. This funding is aimed at financing the construction of new technical schools, secondary schools, and primary schools across Cyprus, as well as extensions and upgrades to existing facilities.
"Our school buildings were neglected for decades. They require immediate action, and that is exactly what we have been doing over the past three years," Michaelidou asserted. She expressed her commitment to intensifying these efforts over the next three years through the state budget, ensuring that the educational infrastructure meets the needs of the growing student population.
As the discussion around prefabricated classrooms continues, Michaelidou's remarks underscore the government's recognition of the pressing need for additional educational facilities in certain areas, while also emphasizing the importance of safety and the eventual transition to permanent structures. The ministry's proactive approach in addressing these challenges reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Cyprus.