The President of the Cyprus Primary Teachers’ Union (POED), Myria Vasiliou, has raised concerns about ongoing challenges in the education sector, particularly regarding staffing and the new evaluation system. Speaking to CNA, she said that several issues remain unresolved, especially around the placement of educators, with hopes that progress will be made by the end of August. Staffing for Optional All-Day Schools is also expected to be addressed in September.
Vasiliou expressed concerns regarding the Education Service Commission’s method of appointing temporary teachers, describing it as impersonal and lacking sensitivity to individual circumstances. She stressed the need for more permanent positions to reduce the number of temporary staff and make the appointment process more manageable.
A major concern is the low interest in teaching positions at Optional All-Day Schools, despite their expansion. Many educators find part-time contracts and reduced pay unattractive, leading to staffing difficulties. POED proposes full-time contracts to improve integration between morning and afternoon programmes and to boost interest among educators, especially younger ones. Similar concerns exist for substitute teaching positions.
There are still several pressing issues, including the evaluation of teachers and educational work, the future of the appointments system, support for pre-primary education, and how to handle behavioural incidents in schools. POED has submitted its position on the evaluation system and is set to meet the Minister of Education again soon, aiming to create a better model without repeating past mistakes.
Vasiliou expressed disappointment that the Ministry has not yet engaged in dialogue over the new appointments system, despite earlier promises. She highlighted that the current law, passed in 2015, has led to consistent problems and that both unions and authorities acknowledge the need for change.
Looking ahead to 2027, Vasiliou warned of a looming shortage of teachers due to retirements and an insufficient number of eligible candidates.
She concluded by stating that the law cannot remain unchanged, as it risks failing both teachers and the public education system.
Source: CNA
Feature photo source: Dom
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