Facts about Cyprus
| Area: | 9,251 sq km |
| Capital: | Nicosia |
| Language: | Greek, Turkish |
| Currency: | Euro |
| Turkish Lira | |
| Population: | 784,301 |
| Coastline: | 648 sq km |
Home > Education > Brief Guide
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.
