Cyprus's parliament has passed a new system to evaluate teachers. This is a big step for public education in the country. The new law was approved on Monday with much support. It will update how teachers' work is assessed. This process has not changed for a long time. However, teachers' unions do not agree with the new system. They think it will not work and are planning more actions.
The approval of this bill ends many long talks and debates. The Ministry of Education says the new system is important for modern education. They also believe it helps meet European Union rules. It could also encourage teachers to keep developing their skills. The system includes rewards for individuals and groups. This should lead to better teaching and results.
But, important teachers' unions, like ΟΕΛΜΕΚ, are very unhappy. They strongly oppose the new law. Union leaders said there was no agreement with the Ministry. They also said their worries were not heard. Dimitris Taliadoros, the head of ΟΕΛΜΕΚ, stated there was no common ground. He said the Ministry and unions did not agree. Therefore, the union might take further action.
The law was difficult to pass. There were many meetings and discussions. The final vote for the teacher evaluation bill was 29 for and 18 against. Rules for evaluating teachers and school activities also passed. These were approved with 29 votes for and 17 against. This shows that parliament is divided. It also shows disagreement between the government and teachers.
The Ministry of Education promised to make changes. These changes will help the system work well and be fair. The system will start in March. A full launch is planned for 2028. However, the Ministry and schools must do a lot of work. They need to prepare for the system in this short time.
Many people are now asking for everyone to work together. Pavlos Mylonas, who leads the education committee, said all sides must cooperate. He said everyone must work together to make the system work. He also said people should show solidarity and cooperation during this change. It is not yet clear if the unions will agree. The ΟΕΛΜΕΚ union will meet after the holidays. They will look closely at the new law and decide their next steps. The next few months will be important for Cyprus's education future.