Only 17.9% of secondary school students in Cyprus are enrolled in vocational education programmes, compared with an EU average of 52.4%, according to the latest European Commission figures, President of the Republic Nikos Christodoulides said in an address at the opening ceremony of the 9th National Skills Competition, SkillsCyprus 2026, on Thursday at the State Fair in Nicosia. The address was delivered on his behalf by Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Marinos Moushouttas.
President Christodoulides noted that Cyprus continues to record low participation rates in vocational education and training compared with other EU member states. He said that while the European Commission’s country-specific recommendations acknowledge Cyprus’ strong economic performance, they also highlight challenges in productivity, innovation and skills.
The Commission, he added, has called for measures to address labour shortages and improve job quality by increasing the participation of vulnerable groups in the labour market and making vocational education and training more accessible and attractive.
“Skills competitions are designed to contribute precisely to this effort,” the President said, stressing the importance of highlighting the career development opportunities offered by technical and vocational professions.
In this context, he referred to the establishment and subsequent expansion of the Technical Gymnasium, describing it as a milestone in Cyprus’ education system that responds to students’ interests and addresses a longstanding gap.
President Christodoulides also stressed the importance of developing digital, green and entrepreneurial skills to equip young people for the demands of the modern labour market.
On artificial intelligence, he noted that technical professions requiring practical work, judgement, adaptability and problem-solving are difficult to fully automate.
“Technology will transform many of these jobs, but it will also increase the need for people with modern technical skills who can make use of new tools,” he said, encouraging young people to consider vocational education and training as a career path with strong prospects.
Competition expands to 18 skill categories
Deputy Director of the Cyprus Productivity Centre Nicos Philippou said this year’s competition features 18 skill categories, up from 12 in 2024.
He said visitors can take part in practical activities at around 20 “Try a Skill” stations, while presentations by professionals, scholarships and prizes are also part of the programme.
Philippou added that around 25 volunteers are supporting the event for the first time. He also recalled Cyprus’ bronze medal in the team entrepreneurship competition at EuroSkills 2025.
Three-day competition in Nicosia
SkillsCyprus 2026 is taking place from October 29 to 31 at the State Fair in Nicosia. Organised by the Cyprus Productivity Centre, a department of the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, the competition aims to promote vocational education and encourage young people to pursue technical careers.
Successful participants will have the opportunity to join a preparation programme with a view to representing Cyprus at EuroSkills 2027, scheduled to take place in Dusseldorf, Germany, from September 22 to 26, 2027.
Source: CNA
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