**Sports Professionals Call for Reforms in Cyprus Gymnastics Sector**
In a recent statement, sports professionals in Cyprus have underscored the urgent need for significant reforms within the gymnastics sector. This call for action follows a special report released by the Audit Office, which raised critical concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of the Cyprus Sports Organisation (KOA). The report, which has drawn attention from various stakeholders, highlights alarming deficiencies in the supervision of gymnastics federations and private sports schools.
The Cyprus Association of Physical Education and Sports Science Graduates (Pasypefaa) expressed its deep concern over the findings of the Audit Office's report, describing them as "worrying." The association emphasized that the enforcement of existing laws is not merely a bureaucratic obligation but a crucial matter of public safety. They argue that proper oversight is essential for ensuring the protection of individuals, maintaining the quality of services, and safeguarding legally licensed businesses and professionals in the sports sector.
According to the report, KOA's responsibilities include issuing permits for sports schools and verifying the qualifications of individuals providing services to the public. However, it was revealed that in July 2025, KOA made a controversial decision to refrain from prosecuting certain sports centres, raising questions about the legality and rationale behind such a choice. Pasypefaa has demanded clarity on this matter, seeking to understand how KOA ensures compliance with legal requirements among these sports centres.
The association has pointed out that if understaffing is indeed a significant factor contributing to the shortcomings identified in the report, KOA should publicly disclose whether it has formally requested additional staffing resources from the government to enhance its oversight capabilities. They assert that the public has a right to know the reasons behind any lack of response to these requests.
In light of the Audit Office's findings, Pasypefaa has called for KOA to act promptly on the recommendations outlined in the report. They urge the organization to advance its updated regulations for private gymnastics schools, which were approved in January 2024, to ensure a more robust framework for oversight and compliance.
The concerns raised by sports professionals reflect a broader sentiment within the community regarding the need for a more accountable and effective governance structure in the sports sector. As the gymnastics community awaits further developments, the emphasis remains on the importance of implementing reforms that prioritize safety, professionalism, and the integrity of sports education in Cyprus.
The situation continues to evolve, and stakeholders are hopeful that KOA will take the necessary steps to address these pressing issues and restore confidence in the governance of gymnastics and other sports in the country.