Cyprus’ government has approved a series of education-related measures aimed at supporting people repatriating to the country from abroad, including Greek language learning opportunities, as part of its 'Minds in Cyprus' initiative.
The decision was announced by Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Athena Michaelidou, following the Cabinet meeting on 27 August.
“These measures build on the Government’s Action Plan for Talent Repatriation and the recently launched online platform ‘Minds in Cyprus,’” Michaelidou said in a written statement.
Under the new plan, Greek language courses will be expanded through the Ministry’s Adult Education Centers, offering access not only to returnees but also to their spouses. Additionally, free Greek lessons will be provided for spouses and children through the State Institutes of Further Education, with costs fully covered by the Education Ministry’s budget.
The Cabinet also decided to raise the annual grant for families returning to Cyprus who enroll their children in private schools—from €768 to €1,000 for secondary education—and to ease eligibility requirements. Instead of the previous requirement of 10 consecutive years of permanent residence abroad, applicants will now qualify after seven years.
“We believe these measures will further encourage those who wish to return to their homeland, supporting our goal of attracting talent back to Cyprus,” Michaelidou said.
“This will enhance quality, create better opportunities, and strengthen the country’s international standing,” she added.
(Source: CNA)
