Program Overview

Cyprus is set to renew its commitment to bridging the gap between education and the labor market with a reintroduced work-week initiative. Employers have until January 16, 2026, to express their interest in hosting second-year lyceum students for a structured job-shadowing experience during the 2025–2026 school year.

Government Initiative And Strategic Vision

Announced by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth, the program is part of the directorate of secondary general education’s efforts under the government’s Governance 2025 planning and the ministry’s Annual Action Plan for 2025–2026. This initiative falls under Strategic Objective 1, which prioritizes student-centered educational policies, reinforcing the role of hands-on learning in modern education.

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Real-World Work Experience

The initiative revives the institution of the work week, allowing students to engage directly with professional environments. Through short-term placements that span approximately six and a half weeks—from February 18 to April 3, 2026—students will gain firsthand insights into workplace setups, daily routines, and responsibilities. This exposure is designed to assist students in making informed decisions regarding their academic and career trajectories.

Aligning With National Recovery And Resilience

The project plays a pivotal role in Cyprus’ Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), specifically addressing the reform required to tackle skills mismatches between education and employment in secondary and tertiary education. The structured job-shadowing experience is a crucial component in the realization of a comprehensive national program aimed at enhancing career readiness among students.

Participation And Implementation Details

Both public and private sector organizations have the opportunity to participate. Employers and institutions interested in hosting students must submit their details electronically by January 16, 2026, via the official Employer-Host Organisation Declaration Form. The form requires basic organizational data, a designated contact person, relevant sector information, and a brief outline of the expected workplace exposure for the students.

Access To Official Documentation

All official announcements, supporting documents, and related forms, including Annexes 1 and 2 along with Forms 1–4 (designed for students, parents, schools, and host organisations), are available on the Education Ministry’s Website. Organisations operating across multiple districts and intending to host students in various areas are required to complete separate forms for each location.