Debate regarding school holidays for the Archbishop's name day in Cyprus

Schools across all educational levels in Cyprus remain closed on April 23 for the name day of Archbishop Georgios, unless the date coincides with Holy Week or Easter. This long-standing tradition, initiated under Archbishop Makarios, has faced renewed public criticism. Parents have expressed significant opposition on social media, citing difficulties with childcare arrangements and the loss of instructional time following the recent Easter break. Some critics have directed their frustration at educators, questioning the necessity of the holiday. The Archbishop himself has reportedly suggested the abolition of the holiday. Theologian Theodoros Kyriakou argued that the holiday should be removed to respect the cultural and religious diversity of the student body. Meanwhile, Christakis Efstathiou, a spokesperson for the Holy Archdiocese, noted that the discussion should focus on whether the holiday is used for educational and historical reflection rather than merely as a non-working day.