Private kindergartens annoyed at being left out of the President's announcements

The Cyprus Association of Private Preschool Education (SIPEK) has expressed strong disappointment following the President’s recent announcements regarding the 2026 Governance Program. The association argues that the private sector has been systematically excluded from government support and planning, which threatens the financial viability of private kindergartens. Key concerns include the expansion of public all-day schools and legislative changes to lower the age for free public education without prior consultation or impact assessments. SIPEK also highlighted potential labor shortages, as new public sector positions may draw staff away from private institutions already facing recruitment challenges. Furthermore, they criticized the use of prefabricated classrooms in public schools, claiming it creates a double standard regarding safety and health regulations. Ultimately, the association urges the government to collaborate with the private sector to save state funds and ensure a more balanced educational system.