On Thursday, November 5, solidarity actions with French students protesting against cuts in education funding will take place in secondary schools in Cyprus. This was reported by the Pancyprian Coordinating Organization of Students PSEM.

The actions are planned for the time of the second school break. The organization calls on schoolchildren across the island to join the initiative in order to express support for their French peers and their demands.

“Solidarity with the students of France

We, the representatives of PSEM, welcome the struggle of our French classmates and express support for their just demands. We support them in the struggle for free state education that meets the needs of all students.

From September 17 to the present day, students take to the streets every day, protesting against cuts in education funding. They are reacting to a total reduction in the education budget of 41 million euros. At the same time, they demand the hiring of new teachers and the making up of all missed lessons due to their absence. These demands directly concern the right to education, since every lost teaching hour creates gaps, and covering them cannot depend on the financial capabilities of each family to pay for additional support.

Their demands also include the repair and modernization of school infrastructure. Safe classrooms, properly equipped laboratories, and accessible school premises are basic prerequisites for learning. Every student has the right to attend a school that supports the educational process and meets his everyday needs.

They also demand participation in decision-making concerning their school. Access to education and the opportunity for students to express their opinion on issues that concern them are the foundation of education that ensures equal opportunities and a democratic character. From France to Cyprus, our demands differ little.

We are fighting for truly state and free education to which everyone will have equal access and equal opportunities. Education that will offer multifaceted and person-oriented learning, will develop critical thinking, and will give everyone the opportunity to develop their skills.

We call on our classmates on Thursday, November 5, during the second break, to hold symbolic actions of solidarity and support for our classmates in France and their struggle.”

https://cyprusbutterfly.com.cy/news/kiprskie-shkolniki-nachinayut-akczii-podderzhku