The Council of Ministers is approving a bill on Special Education on Wednesday which, according to President Nicos Christodoulides, changes the philosophy of the system after decades by placing the child at its centre.
In a recorded message, Christodoulides said the government had made modernising the state, correcting longstanding distortions and creating institutions capable of meeting present-day needs a priority from its first day in office.
Individualised support for children
“Today, at the Council of Ministers, we are approving the bill on Special Education. After decades, we are changing the philosophy of the system and placing the child at its centre,” Christodoulides said.
He said the bill establishes more individualised support for children with disabilities and those requiring additional assistance, while strengthening the role of parents.
It also provides for more transparent and effective procedures and guarantees the right to a school leaving certificate for all children attending mainstream schools.
“We are building a more modern and inclusive school. A school that adapts to the needs and abilities of every child,” he said.
Government highlights reform programme
Christodoulides said the government’s reform programme was progressing through specific decisions and institutional changes focused on citizens and improving their daily lives.
He also referred to strengthening the rule of law, transparency, accountability and public trust in institutions.
In this context, the president welcomed the continuation on Wednesday of discussions in the parliamentary Legal Affairs Committee on the reform of the Legal Service.
Legal Service reform discussed
Christodoulides said the government had proposed a substantial institutional reform that includes separating the Attorney-General’s advisory and prosecutorial roles.
The proposals also provide for the creation of the office of Director of Public Prosecutions and the introduction of effective scrutiny of decisions on whether to initiate criminal proceedings.
According to Christodoulides, the changes are necessary for a modern European state governed by the rule of law and respond to recommendations from European and international institutions.
“With credibility, institutional seriousness and specific decisions, we continue our reform programme. We continue changing our Cyprus for the benefit of society and citizens,” he said.
Source: CNA
