**School Air Conditioning Rollout Underway as Focus Shifts to Primaries**
As the new school year approaches, the Ministry of Education in Cyprus is making significant strides in equipping public preschools, high schools, and nearly all middle schools with air conditioning systems. Education Minister Athena Michaelidou announced on Thursday that this initiative is part of a broader plan to enhance the learning environment for students, particularly during the hot summer months.
In an interview with the Cyprus News Agency, Michaelidou explained that the ministry's initial focus was to address deficiencies in the electrical systems of schools, a concern highlighted in a recent audit report. Before air conditioning units could be installed, it was essential to ensure that the electrical infrastructure could support the additional load without compromising safety.
According to the minister, every public preschool has now been equipped with air conditioning, a feat achieved with the support of parents' associations. Similarly, all high schools have received the necessary installations, as classrooms remain operational throughout the year. Michaelidou noted that approximately half of the primary schools will also have air conditioning ready for students when they return. The ministry has identified completing the installations in primary schools as a priority for the coming months.
"The school year will begin with this picture, with the emphasis being on primary schools until the end of the year," she stated, underscoring the government's commitment to improving classroom conditions.
The rollout of air conditioning in schools has been a response to ongoing concerns about high indoor temperatures during the summer, which can hinder students' ability to learn effectively. However, the initiative has not been without its challenges. Earlier this year, electrical contractors raised alarms about the ageing infrastructure and inadequate electrical capacity in some schools, warning that without significant upgrades, the systems could pose safety risks.
Industry representatives cautioned that overloaded circuits and insufficient cabling could lead to power failures if multiple air conditioning units were activated simultaneously before the necessary electrical works were completed. In light of these concerns, the education ministry has assured the public that the installations are being carried out in coordination with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC), and that electrical upgrades are integral to the overall project.
This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that all schools can safely and effectively utilize the new air conditioning systems, providing a more comfortable learning environment for students across the island.
As the government continues to prioritize the installation of air conditioning units, it remains committed to addressing the needs of primary schools in the upcoming months. The progress made thus far reflects a significant investment in the future of education in Cyprus, with the overarching goal of enhancing the educational experience for all students.
With the new school year just around the corner, the successful implementation of air conditioning in schools is expected to have a positive impact on student well-being and academic performance, as the ministry works diligently to complete the remaining installations.