Newsroom
A recent nationwide study by POED (Pancyprian Organization of Greek Teachers) presents a troubling picture of school life in Cyprus, based on responses from 1,017 primary education teachers.
Nearly all participants, 95%, report that incidents involving student violence and misconduct have increased. More than half of teachers, 55%, say they do not consistently feel safe at work, while 53% believe that schools cannot always guarantee safety for students.
The data also outlines how frequently different forms of student behavior occur. Verbal aggression is the most common, reported by 63% of teachers, followed by physical aggression at 59%. Acts of vandalism are mentioned by 31%, while 13% refer to online or digital harassment.
Incidents directed at teachers themselves are also recorded. Around 29% of respondents report disrespectful behavior from students, 12% mention threats of physical harm, and 9% say they have experienced physical attacks.
Teaching time is significantly affected. About two-thirds of educators say classroom disruptions interfere with lesson quality. Many teachers spend a substantial portion of each class dealing with these situations, with 26% using up to 10 minutes per lesson and 28% exceeding that. Outside lesson time is also impacted, as over a quarter dedicate almost an entire period daily to managing such cases.
Support systems appear uneven. While 62% are satisfied with assistance from school leadership and 58% with colleagues, far fewer express satisfaction with external support. Only 17% feel adequately supported by Ministry services, 14% by parents, and 8% by welfare services.
Teachers identify several key reasons behind the increase in problematic behavior. The most common include limited family support, excessive use of technology at home, lack of effective disciplinary tools, financial and social difficulties within families, declining respect toward educators, and the influence of social media. A shortage of specialized professionals such as psychologists and social workers is also cited.
The findings also reflect the strain on educators. Although many still find value in their work, with 58% reporting job satisfaction and 64% feeling they positively influence students, exhaustion is widespread. About 65% say they frequently feel drained, 60% doubt they can remain in the profession until retirement, and 28% regularly consider leaving their job due to these challenges.
In response, POED is organizing a ten-day campaign across Cyprus to inform the public and encourage action. Activities include school-based initiatives, public awareness events in city centers, symbolic sports matches, and outdoor group activities promoting non-violence.
The organization argues that isolated measures are not enough. It proposes a structured plan built around eight main areas, including improving school environments, strengthening emotional education, supporting vulnerable students, updating legislation, expanding support services, encouraging cooperation between institutions, enhancing teacher training, and reinforcing respect for the teaching profession.
A detailed proposal has already been submitted to the Ministry of Education, focusing on prevention, early intervention from preschool age, and stronger protection for school communities. Additional recommendations include establishing a clear and fair system for handling complaints against teachers. Meetings with government officials are planned as part of efforts to push these changes forward.
