Concerns over the status of the Republic’s schools in Rizokarpaso in the north were raised during a meeting of the House refugees committee on Tuesday, with members calling for the matter to be discussed at a political level.

Next week, the committee will be attended by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou and the humanitarian affairs commissioner.

During the session, committee members discussed challenges related to teaching procedures and student learning outcomes, which have been affected by restrictions on entry for education ministry inspectors. Issues related to prohibited subjects, book checks, and building safety were also discussed.

Committee chair Nikos Kettiros stated that efforts are being made to manage the situation. He said the north’s authorities have restricted access for the school board and education inspectors to both the primary and secondary schools in Rizokarpaso, citing various sensitive reasons.

He added that the committee is trying to handle the matter without causing issues for the residents of the area.

The committee has requested that the minister and commissioner join the next session to address politically sensitive matters, as they also impact the handling of the Cyprus problem.

Regarding school infrastructure, Kettiros said that while there are no major structural concerns, some improvements in insulation are needed.

He added that new physics and biology books were not approved by authorities in the north for use at the Karpasia secondary school.

Kettiros expressed concern that the north’s authorities scrutinise each book meticulously, saying that the committee is trying to address the restrictions without disrupting school operations or affecting students.

Disy MP Rita Superman also expressed her party’s concern over the restrictions, which have been in place since May 2023. She added that barring school board members and inspectors has contributed to students’ learning difficulties.