Teachers sound alarm over hungry students in schools

Primary school teachers in Cyprus are raising concerns about children coming to school hungry, with some students lacking even a simple sandwich to get through the day. The issue was highlighted during a meeting at the Presidential Palace, where Myria Vassiliou, president of the Cyprus Primary Teachers' Union (POED), emphasized the seriousness of the situation to government officials and various organizations.

According to Vassiliou, some students attending optional all-day schools do not receive free meals, leaving them without the means to buy food. She noted that the problem is compounded by families' reluctance to seek assistance due to pride, even when they struggle to afford basic meals for their children.

"There are parents and guardians who cannot afford to send their children to school with even a sandwich," Vassiliou said. She stressed the need for the free meal program to expand and cover a larger number of students to ensure no child goes hungry.

A Disconnect Between Statistics and Reality

While the Ministry of Education has cited data indicating a decline in child poverty, teachers argue that the reality in classrooms tells a different story. "A teacher in the classroom, when they see even one child who is hungry and has nothing to eat, they are not concerned about statistics," Vassiliou stated. "They are concerned about the child and finding ways to feed all children."

The teachers' union is calling for immediate action to address the issue, urging the government to prioritize the welfare of students and ensure adequate nutrition for all, regardless of economic background.