A logical development in the labour market, which is rapidly transforming due to technology and artificial intelligence – Insights from a careers adviser.
The public sector in Cyprus is facing a pressing issue: thousands of job vacancies remain unfilled, despite high demand for government appointments. While many aspire to join the public sector, paradoxically, either they reject the positions offered, or there simply aren’t enough candidates with the necessary qualifications.
Aristos Constantinou, a careers adviser, spoke on the programme “Mesimeri kai Kati” on SIGMA, explaining this phenomenon and offering valuable advice to those at a career crossroads or completing their academic studies.
The “paradox” of the vacant positions
According to Mr Constantinou, the situation is not a “paradox” at all. On the contrary, it is a logical outcome of a labour market undergoing rapid change due to technological advancement and AI. Some positions remain unfilled because the suitable qualified personnel no longer exist. However, as also highlighted in a Politis report, not all vacancies require highly specialised qualifications. Other factors are also at play.
Mr Constantinou cited several specific examples of unfilled roles:
- Clerical support staff: 207 vacancies
- Court stenographers: 20 vacancies
- Ministry of Education attendants: 33 vacancies
- Government ship engineers: 2 vacancies
- Forest officers: 28 vacancies
Why do graduates “turn their backs” on A2, A5, A7 positions?
Most vacancies, especially those in salary scales A2, A5, and A7, are targeted at graduates. However, these graduates often prefer A8-level positions, which require a university degree, leaving lower-level posts empty.
At the same time, there are challenges in filling more specialised roles due to a lack of candidates with the necessary expertise beyond a general degree. Mr Constantinou emphasises that the frequent question asked by parents — “Tell me a degree that guarantees a job” — is now outdated. All degrees provide a foundational base, but we are now in the era of specialisation.
The new A9 category and the need for specialisation
In the most recent public sector exam announcement, a new category — A9 — was introduced for specialised positions, divided into three subcategories:
- Mechanical knowledge, electrical engineering, fisheries: Aimed at covering many current gaps
- Law
- Economics
This signals the government’s shift towards more specialised profiles, as routine administrative tasks are increasingly automated.
The case of the document conservator: A paradox raising concern
A notable example is that of the Document Conservator (A8 position), where specialised personnel are needed, yet the state still requires government exams, despite a lack of candidates. Mr Constantinou described this as a paradox that poses risks to proper archiving, and he questioned whether alternative hiring methods for such specialist roles should be debated in Parliament.
The public sector’s inflexibility and the role of education
It’s evident that the public sector lacks flexibility in its recruitment processes and in addressing its needs. However, Mr Constantinou also believes that the public must take some responsibility. A degree is no longer enough. Specialisation is essential and can be achieved through:
- Postgraduate studies
- Professional qualifications
- Work experience combined with the above
This significantly boosts employability in today’s job market.
Soft skills do not play a substantial role in public sector hiring practices.
Opportunities for appointment and the need for educational adaptation
Despite the challenges, Mr Constantinou believes this is a good opportunity for those who have completed their studies or are at a career turning point to consider public sector roles, even for those of older age.
Another issue highlighted was that secondary education does not necessarily produce professionals such as stenographers, who are vital for court operations. Education must prepare citizens in line with economic needs — something hindered by the lack of flexibility in the secondary school system.
Mr Constantinou also estimated that favouritism in hiring has declined due to written exams, although oral interviews still leave some room for subjectivity.
Lifelong learning is key
Finally, the careers adviser underscores the need for continuous learning and staying updated with labour market trends. A telling example is the shortage of secondary school maths teachers — many mathematics graduates now pursue postgraduate paths that lead to well-paid jobs in the private sector. Avoiding stagnation is clearly a path to success.
Also read: Bribery scandals in Greece’s public sector show persistence of corruption
Source: Economy Today
