The conflict between the Minister of Education and OELMEK (Cyprus Secondary Education Teachers’ Union) has escalated following last week’s dispute over the new teacher evaluation scheme.
OELMEK’s initial strongly-worded letter criticising Athena Michaelidou and her ministry was followed by another public announcement launching fresh criticism against the minister, triggered by her radio interview comments yesterday.
The union claims the minister “lost her composure when confronted with the Ministry of Education’s ineffectiveness in resolving serious secondary education issues”, which they highlighted in their letter dated November 28, 2024.
They added that “her references strongly remind us of old-school ministers, whom she increasingly resembles”.
OELMEK defended its position, stating they are not responsible for the ministry’s shortcomings in problem-solving and implementing changes.
They listed several unfulfilled promises, including appointment system proposals, air conditioning installation, alternative study programmes, permanent positions agreement, curriculum modernisation, and management staff secondments.
The union also accused Michaelidou of falsely claiming they refused dialogue on the evaluation system. They maintain they participated in initial discussions for two months and submitted detailed written feedback on Stage A.
The union says it will take a responsible position once a complete proposal is presented, as they have long sought to replace the existing “outdated and counterproductive” inspection system.
The matter is set to be discussed at OELMEK’s Cyprus-wide Conference of General Representatives on December 19.
The Education Ministry has not publicly responded to OELMEK’s latest criticism. A ministry source told philenews that “the minister will not engage in an exchange of letters with OELMEK”.
However, the source indicated that written responses to all issues raised by OELMEK will be provided, despite Michaelidou’s reluctance to engage in public correspondence with the teachers’ union.
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