The Cypriot government has approved an ambitious plan to build new public schools and upgrade existing ones.
The main reason for this initiative is the growing number of foreign professionals, particularly in the IT sector, moving to the island with their families.
The programme envisages a 10-25% increase in the construction rate, depending on the area. Deviations from the standards for open space and sports facilities are also possible, reducing costs by up to %, subject to the approval of the Ministry of Education.
These measures are intended to address the shortage of school places, which is particularly important for the families of highly qualified professionals working in Cyprus. Currently, there is an acute shortage of places in Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca, and in the near future this may also affect Paphos and the free neighbourhoods of Famagusta.
It is planned to attract foreign investment to carry out the project. Incidentally, developers have already submitted 14 applications for the expansion of existing schools and the construction of new educational facilities.
The TechIsland survey showed that 60% of IT professionals come to Cyprus with children. More than 2.6 thousand schoolchildren have moved to the island since 2020 and the demand for educational facilities continues to grow. It is predicted that 68% of international companies plan to relocate an average of 49 employees to Cyprus in the coming years, which will only increase the need for schools.
The Cypriot government is focusing on developing the education infrastructure as one of the key factors in attracting skilled workers and supporting the economy. The new schools will help create a comfortable environment for expatriate families and ensure long-term economic growth by attracting new investment and professionals.