Cyprus is investing €45 million to install air conditioners in schools, equipping 650 schools with an average of 20 units each, totaling around 15,000 ACs to combat high temperatures affecting learning conditions. The project, set to be completed within three years, marks a proactive approach by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou to create a more conducive learning environment amidst sweltering classroom temperatures.
What is Cyprus’ strategy for air conditioning installation in schools?
Cyprus is investing €45 million to install air conditioners in schools, aiming to equip 650 schools with an average of 20 units each, totaling around 15,000 ACs. This initiative is a response to high temperatures affecting learning conditions, with the project expected to be completed within three years.
Addressing the Heat: A Proactive Approach
In an unprecedented move, Athena Michaelidou, the Education Minister, has officially announced a well-structured plan for installing air conditioning systems in schools throughout Cyprus. After years of political promises, this plan marks the first concrete steps to address the sweltering classroom temperatures during heatwaves. The initiative comes in response to an exceptionally torrid June and mounting public pressure to create a more conducive learning environment.
The government has earmarked a substantial €45 million for this ambitious project. By equipping 650 schools with an average of 20 air conditioners each, the total number of units to be installed will reach around 15,000. This rollout, expected to span three years, is kicking off with 50 schools, selected based on specific criteria, distributed equally across the five districts of Cyprus.
Immediate Relief and Long-Term Goals
As the country grapples with soaring temperatures, with forecasts predicting highs up to 45°C inland, the Ministry took the immediate measure of closing schools at 10:45 am last Friday. While exams proceeded but concluded by 11 am, the heatwave prompted a more flexible approach for the safety of students and staff. Minister Michaelidou emphasized that the primary concern is the protection of school communities, and the ministry is ready to adapt as weather conditions demand.
Amid these extreme temperatures, a significant number of parents opted to keep their children at home, a choice supported by the ministry. However, this is seen as a stopgap measure, with the true resolution lying in the installation of air conditioners, which the current government prioritized recognizing their importance for optimal teaching and learning conditions.
Overcoming Past Hurdles
For years, the issue of air conditioning in schools simmered without resolution, often dismissed due to various reasons, including concerns over building safety and feasibility. The new administration, however, tackled these concerns head-on, conducting the necessary surveys and assessments to ensure a safe and effective installation process.
Minister Michaelidou has expressed confidence in the current plan, noting that while the timeline is set for completion within three years, there’s hope for an earlier finish if conditions permit. Notably, schools in higher mountain areas, where temperatures are more moderate, will not be part of the initial installation phase.
A Step Forward for Cyprus’ Education
This strategic venture is more than a response to a heatwave; it’s a modernization of the educational infrastructure in Cyprus, aligning with global standards to provide a comfortable and conducive learning space for students. With the government’s efficient planning and the minister’s commitment to expedite the process, Cyprus is on its way to ensuring that the learning experience is not just about academic rigor but also about physical wellbeing.
How much is Cyprus investing in installing air conditioners in schools?
Cyprus is investing €45 million to install air conditioners in schools, aiming to equip 650 schools with an average of 20 units each, totaling around 15,000 ACs.
What is the timeline for completing the air conditioning installation project in schools?
The project is expected to be completed within three years, with the installation of air conditioners in 650 schools across Cyprus.
How are schools being selected for the initial phase of air conditioning installation?
The initial phase of the project will involve installing air conditioners in 50 schools, selected based on specific criteria, distributed equally across the five districts of Cyprus.
What prompted Cyprus to take proactive steps in addressing classroom temperatures through air conditioning installation?
The initiative to install air conditioners in schools is a response to high temperatures affecting learning conditions, with the aim of creating a more conducive learning environment for students amidst sweltering classroom temperatures. This project marks a proactive approach by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou to modernize the educational infrastructure in Cyprus.
