Address by the Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Dr Athena Michaelidou, at the conference entitled “Wellbeing in school, with an emphasis on how global demographic, technological and economic changes affect the well-being of students and teachers”

Address by the Minister of Education, Sport and Youth, Dr Athena Michaelidou, at the conference entitled “Wellbeing in school, with an emphasis on how global demographic, technological and economic changes affect the well-being of students and teachers”

• Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth

09/07/26 19:31  |  Speech / Address  |  Education, Sport and Youth

It is a great pleasure to welcome you to the conference entitled “Wellbeing at School: How Global Demographic, Technological and Economic Changes Affect the Wellbeing of Students and Teachers”. This gathering reflects the value of European cooperation and dialogue. By bringing together experts, policymakers and education professionals from different contexts, we strengthen our collective capacity to promote wellbeing in schools

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes (IDEP) for co-organising this important event and to all our distinguished speakers and participants for joining us today. We are living in an era of rapid and continuous change. The accelerating pace of technological development, the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI), social and economic transformations and emerging demographic realities are profoundly reshaping schools and the educational process. In this dynamic and often demanding environment, the wellbeing of students and teachers is a fundamental prerequisite for meaningful learning, creativity, inclusion and social cohesion.

Schools today are called upon to prepare citizens who are equipped with knowledge and skills, as well as empathy, resilience and democratic awareness. Achieving this goal requires a safe, inclusive and caring school environment in which every child and every teacher feels a sense of belonging, knows that their voice is heard, and has the opportunity to grow and thrive

In this context, the role of education inspectors is more important than ever in supporting schools as they respond to challenges and opportunities arising. As educational leaders, they can empower teachers, promote inclusive and innovative practices and contribute significantly to building school communities where students and teachers can thrive

As education continues to evolve through the challenges and opportunities arising today, artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming one of the defining developments of our time. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into teaching and learning, its use must always be guided by pedagogical responsibility, critical thinking and a constant commitment to a human-centred approach. Technology should empower teachers, enrich learning experiences and support more inclusive education. 

While technology is transforming education, the values that underpin our education systems must remain constant. Inclusive education is a cornerstone of every modern democratic society. Respect for diversity, equal opportunities and the meaningful participation of every learner are essential to creating school environments where everyone feels safe, valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Such environments not only enhance learning outcomes but also promote the wellbeing of both students and teachers.

These principles are reflected in the educational policies we are implementing in Cyprus. Promoting wellbeing is not simply an educational aspiration but a clear policy priority. Through our National Strategy for the Prevention and Management of Violence in Schools (2024 – 2028), our commitment to inclusive education, the strengthening of mental health support and the continuous professional development of teachers, we are working towards schools where every child and every educator feels safe, respected and empowered to thrive.

I am confident that the presentations, interactive workshops and constructive dialogue over the course of these two days will inspire new ideas and provide effective practical approaches, contributing to the wellbeing of both students and teachers

I wish the conference every success and I hope that it will foster meaningful dialogue and strengthen our shared commitment to promoting wellbeing in education

(NZ/MS)

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