Alpha News

Work Experience Week Returns to Cypriot High Schools

Published January 10, 2026, 19:12

The Ministry of Education has announced the return of work experience week for students in the second year of high school, after a 12-year hiatus. The program will run for approximately six weeks, starting next month and continuing until April, with students spending three days a week in workplaces and the remaining two days attending informative talks by professionals. The aim is to better familiarize students with the job market and gain practical experience. Parents will need to provide consent for their children's participation, and the working hours will be until 1 pm. Alongside this, the Ministry of Education maintains its ban on mobile phone use in classrooms, believing it improves the learning environment and reduces distractions. However, it acknowledges that the ban has led to cases of addiction and the need for psychological support for some students, although these are considered rare. Education Minister Athena Michaelidou emphasized that Cyprus is following the example of other European countries that dedicate significant time to students' professional orientation. The return of the program is considered important for better preparing young people for their future choices. The Ministry of Education recognizes the need to adapt and improve the measure, taking into account the potential negative impacts on students' mental health. Balancing pedagogical effectiveness and student well-being is a key priority.