Minister: social worker services to be launched in schools in Cyprus in 2026, skills-based learning to be strengthened

Cyprus Minister of Education, Sports and Youth Athena Michaelidou told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) on January 26, 2026, that the ministry’s priorities for 2026 include a transition to skills-based learning and the pilot introduction of social worker services in some schools.

The priorities also include closing the list for teacher appointments, addressing special education issues, and preparing a revised bill aimed at moving toward unified and more inclusive education. The minister noted that consultations on special education are at an advanced stage and that a modified bill is expected to be presented soon.

According to the minister, psychologists and social workers will begin working jointly in schools to reduce levels of violence and delinquency and to strengthen the mental resilience of students and teachers. Protocols and guidelines for teachers on dealing with violence and offenses have been prepared; materials will be distributed to schools in both printed and electronic form. The role of the school counselor and the responsible class teacher is being strengthened; the use of cameras and security staff continues in a number of secondary schools.

In 2026, the “working week” for students will also be improved: in the second year of lyceum, from March–April, students spend three days a week undertaking practical training at selected enterprises under school supervision and with parental consent, while on the remaining days they attend meetings and presentations by representatives of the labor market. Pilot career guidance programs have already been introduced from primary school level in 16 educational institutions.

The minister emphasized that the principle of equal treatment and respect for people with disabilities is also reaffirmed, and that any discrimination is condemned.