Elementary school and kindergarten return to Turkish-occupied Kormakitis

On Wednesday, Athena Michaelidou, the Minister of Education, Sports, and Youth, announced that the Elementary School and Kindergarten in Turkish-occupied Kormakitis will reopen in September.

Following the Cabinet meeting, Michaelidou emphasized the significance of this decision, as the school had remained closed for 20 years. The building had been demolished and rebuilt, and now, with the Council of Ministers' approval, children will have the opportunity to attend both Elementary School and Kindergarten. The Ministry of Education and the government wholeheartedly support this initiative to restore life in the occupied region of Kormakitis.

Regarding the number of children attending from the Maronite community, Michaelidou acknowledged that the initial registrations were low. However, she expressed optimism that the numbers would increase following the announcement of the schools' reopening.

The Minister highlighted that the upcoming academic year will serve as an evaluation period for the entire project, and in May 2024, the Ministry will review the decision to continue the schools' operation.

Both schools will adhere to the curriculum and schedule followed in the government-controlled areas of the Republic. The Directorate of Primary Education will oversee all aspects of the school's operations, including the transportation of books and ensuring smooth functioning. Each school will have one main teacher and an additional hourly instructor, similar to other areas bordering the occupied regions.

Cyprus has remained divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied the northern third of the island.