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Cyprus Education Brief Guide

The educational system in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (T.R.N.C.) can be broadly defined in five parts: pre-school education, primary education and secondary education, higher education, and informal education.

Primary education is provided at two stages. The first stage is designed for the 7-12 age group which lasts for 5 years and is free and compulsory. The second stage is also free and compulsory lasting for 3 years.

Secondary education is designed for the 16-18 age group and lasts 3 years. It is provided by high schools, known as Lycees and vocational schools.

There are several universities in North Cyprus to provide higher education. Informal education aims to provide education and training for those unable to benefit adequately from formal education.

Overall responsibility for education rests with the Ministry of Education and Culture. However, a small number of vocational and post-secondary professional institutions come under the Ministries of Labor and Social Insurance, Agriculture and Health.

Education is provided through pre-primary and primary schooling - the latter starts at the age of 5 years and 6 months - secondary general and secondary technical/vocational schools, special schools, third level institutions and non-formal institutions and centers.

Public schools are largely state-funded while private institutions raise their income mainly from tuition fees, small state subsidies and, in some cases, from foreign aid given by overseas agencies and religious organizations.

The educational system is highly centralized with the appointments, transfers, promotions and disciplinary matters of teachers controlled by the State. School curricula and textbooks are prescribed by governmental agencies, and schools at all levels are visited by the state inspectorate.

This offers in-service training, advice and supervision. The inspectorate is also responsible for evaluating schools.

Educational policies are formulated by the Ministry of Education and Culture on the advice of the Education Council - a widely representative body - and approved by the Council of Ministers. The construction, maintenance and equipment of school buildings are the responsibility of local school committees. Private schools are owned and administered by individuals or bodies, but are liable to supervision and inspection of the Ministry of Education.

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