He himself submitted his proposal, officially, during yesterday's meeting of the Education Councils, where the report of the competent committee for the separation of the Pancyprian Examinations was presented, in dismissal exams and access exams. The surprise suggestion of the rector caused the surprise of the attendees, but also various reactions.
In particular, Mr. Christofides proposes to the Ministry of Education the abolition of examinations for admission to the University. It is suggested that all candidates are admitted to study in the field of their choice, during the first year of their studies. Then, in the second year, continue those who secure the highest scores, depending on the number of places in each department. That is, in the second year to be "cleared", according to the standards of the French system.
The rector expressed the view that the implementation of such a proposal would cost around € 5 million, noting that the cost is not prohibitive, as it is not much higher than that of the Pancyprian Examinations. He also claimed that he would allow the public school to focus on its role, which is the diploma, while at the same time exempting students from tutoring.
On the other hand, at yesterday's meeting of the Councils of Primary, Secondary, Higher and Higher Education, the proposal of the Pancyprian Committee was presented, which provides, inter alia: separation of the final exams from the entrance exams in Higher Education and the introduction of four exams formative evaluation. Also, the September exams should be postponed to June, while for the better preparation of the students, two weeks of supplementary teaching should be offered.
The ministry has set a deadline of October 30 for representatives of political parties and other education partners to submit their positions in writing. The aim is to formulate a final proposal and to promote a relevant bill in Parliament before the expiration of 2015, with the ultimate goal of implementing a new examination system from the next school year 2016-17.