Procedures through which services are provided to citizens/organisations
Special Education: General Information
The Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth (MOESY) ensures that children with disabilities have equal access to and participate equally in education by providing services and courses based on the Laws on the Education and Training of Children with Special Needs 1999 to 2020.
Special education courses are open to children by decision of the District Committees of Special Education (DCSE). The District Committee examines every case referred to it and, having assessed each child’s individual needs, decides which school he/she will attend and what facilities and benefits will be provided. The decision is sent to the child’s parents/guardians, who are entitled to file an objection within 30 days of the date of the decision. The Special Education Coordinator of the school which the child attends is responsible for coordination and application of the DCSE’s decision and acts as the liaison between the parents/guardians, the school and the MOESY. If the parents/guardians continue to object to the DCSE’s decision, they can file an objection to the Central Committee of Special Education.
A child with special needs may attend: a) a general class with support; b) a special unit; or c) a special school. Special units are for children who are unable to follow the general curriculum. The curriculum which they follow is tailored to the children’s individualised needs and is designed to cultivate and develop their functional knowledge and skills. Children with serious difficulties attend special schools, which also provide therapy.
In addition to the main services provided for the children, such as special education and training, speech therapy, an individualised programme, special facilities and special technological equipment, the MOESY also organises activities and adopts inclusive education policies defined by the values of equality, recognition and acceptance of diversity.
Web Services and Communication - Cyprus Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth
