A significant shortage of secondary school teachers in Cyprus has delayed the start of the new academic year, according to Demetris Taliadoros, President of the Organisation of Secondary Education Teachers (OELMEK).
Despite students returning to classrooms, several schools remain without a full complement of educators. Taliadoros highlighted the issue of teachers, particularly those from Greece, failing to report for their new positions.
“There are schools, especially in Limassol, with notable vacancies,” he stated, urging the Education Service Commission and the Ministry of Education to address the situation promptly.
OELMEK has long advocated for an earlier start to the staffing process. Taliadoros noted that delays in finalising the detachment list and securing ministerial approval for permanent positions and indefinite contractors led to appointments being made at the end of July instead of the beginning.
The upcoming week will provide a clearer picture of the staffing situation as it becomes apparent whether vacancies have been filled.
On Monday, primary school students will also return to their classrooms, allowing for an assessment of teacher availability and potential operational challenges in that sector.
