Safety officials and education authorities recently launched a new fire safety educational programme for primary and secondary schools at the Astromeritis Primary School, according to an announcement released on Monday.

This initiative is the result of a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth, the Cyprus Fire Service, the Association of Retired Firefighters of Cyprus, and the Bank of Cyprus’ SupportCY network.

“Safety is a fundamental pillar of the educational process, and cultivating a culture of prevention and self-protection from a young age is a strategic priority,” said Education Minister Athena Michaelidou.

She also highlighted “the vital importance of collaboration between state agencies, the educational community, organised bodies, and volunteer organisations to strengthen the resilience of school communities“.

“The programme builds upon previous training sessions provided to teachers across all districts of Cyprus and now extends directly to students, aiming to develop essential knowledge and skills for fire prevention and response through modern educational methods and experiential activities,” explained fire brigate chief Nikos Longinos.

“Investing in prevention and the education of children is a strategic choice, particularly under conditions of increased risks posed by the climate crisis,” said Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at the Bank of Cyprus and representative of SupportCY Elli Ioannidou.

She also reaffirmed the commitment of the organisation to support the programme through school visits, educational presentations, the provision of equipment, and hands-on activities delivered by the SupportCY Volunteer Corps.

Support also includes regular fire prevention patrols in the countryside, which are conducted on a routine basis in close cooperation with the Fire Service.

Following the formal presentations, children from the nursery and primary school participated in interactive learning sessions.

Pupils were briefed on fire safety protocols by members of the Fire Service and the Association of Retired Firefighters of Cyprus, and they were given the opportunity to view firefighting vehicles and equipment used by the SupportCY Volunteer Corps at close quarters.

“The programme and the ongoing cooperation between the stakeholders aim to foster a new generation of citizens with an heightened sense of prevention, responsibility, and readiness to face future challenges,” the announcement concluded.