No Application Yet for Jewish School in Limassol, Ministry Says

The Cypriot Ministry of Education announced that it has not received any formal application for the establishment of a Jewish faith-based school in Limassol.

Reports from Israeli media indicated plans for the school to commence operations by 2027, with stakeholders having already toured a designated site. Rabbi Yehoshua Smukler, leading the initiative, envisions a "Zionist school" catering to Jewish children across all denominations in Cyprus, addressing educational needs unmet by existing institutions.

A ministry representative emphasized that all private schools in Cyprus must undergo a rigorous approval process, adhering to internationally recognized curricular standards. The current legal framework prohibits schools from engaging in proselytization or mandating religious instruction without offering an opt-out option.

Additionally, institutions established by non-EU entities require explicit authorization from the Interior Minister. Following the events of October 7 and subsequent attacks in Israel, there was a proposal to create a temporary educational facility for displaced Israeli children.

This request was denied due to the absence of a legal framework accommodating such temporary establishments.

Consequently, Israeli families relocating to Cyprus have integrated their children into existing private schools. The Limassol planning department has been approached for further details regarding the building permits for the proposed school's site, which reportedly has financial backing from the Yael Foundation.

The envisioned institution aims to serve approximately 1,500 students, providing an immersive Jewish educational experience to counteract rising antisemitism.

Read Original Article: Cyprus Mail

Image credit - Yael Foundation