Ministry plans alternative education for juvenile delinquents

Concerns over youth delinquency have prompted Cyprus's Ministry of Education to develop a targeted plan for an alternative education program aimed at juvenile offenders.

Over the past three years, police have recorded 1,874 cases involving juveniles, raising alarms among both authorities and society at large.

According to police statistics, Limassol has emerged as the district with the highest incidence of juvenile delinquency, followed by Nicosia.

Recent incidents underscore the urgency of the issue, including a case in Paphos where a 14-year-old allegedly stole and torched a vehicle.

Education Minister Athena Michaelidou announced preparations for the new school year will include the launch of the country's first pilot alternative education framework. This initiative aims to cater specifically to children aged 12-18 with severe behavioral disorders, with the potential to open more facilities nationwide.

In collaboration with a Multidisciplinary Team, students will be assessed for eligibility based on stringent criteria. The program will feature individualized learning support, with subjects and vocational training programs tailored to each student's needs and preferences.

The ministry plans to deploy a diverse range of trained professionals, including special trainers, counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, and vocational specialists. Therapeutic approaches such as drama, music, and group therapy will supplement individual sessions aimed at retraining and supporting troubled youths.

Currently, Cyprus has a single Day Centre in Limassol, overseen by the Social Welfare Services, dedicated to minors under its care.