Cabinet approved on Thursday an exceptional measure allowing several small schools across Cyprus to remain open from September, despite enrolments falling below the usual threshold.

Education Minister Athena Michaelidou made the announcement at the presidential palace, shortly after the cabinet meeting. She said the decision was based on preliminary enrolment figures in nurseries and primary schools, which revealed a pressing need to support education in remote communities.

“Based on the preliminary registrations in Cyprus’ nurseries and primary schools, there is a need to support the operation of certain schools, which will open from September on an exceptional basis with a small number of pupils,” said Michaelidou.

The schools selected are located in areas where no viable alternative exists, and where social and economic conditions demand state support. The minister said the decision was justified by “specific documentation such as geographical isolation, the lack of alternative school options in these communities, and their socio-economic needs.”

The cabinet also approved the closure of Ayios Amvrosios primary school in Limassol. It will be merged with the school in Pano Kyvides. The Pavlides nursery will also close and join with Kalogera nursery.

“These exceptions ensure equal opportunities in education for all children, stability for teaching staff and the application of quality educational practices,” Michaelidou said.

While regulations generally require a minimum of fifteen pupils for a school to remain operational, the ministry is making exceptions.

Some of the schools that will stay open have fewer than ten children, with one village school in Kormakitis reportedly hosting just one pupil. Another example is the nursery in Moutoullas, which has fewer than eight children.

Michaelidou explained that the government’s decision goes beyond education.

“We believe that the operation of these schools is important not only for educational reasons, but also for social ones, for the vitality and preservation of the community,” she said. “This also gives incentives to more couples to live in these areas and enrol their children in local schools.”

She stressed that each decision was made following a detailed review of local needs.

“Some of these schools serve nearby communities, but others are the only available option for remote villages,” she added.