lakatamia primary — lakatamia primary — Lakatamia’s 3rd primary school is in dire need of renovations, as highlighted by a recent visit from House education committee president Pavlos Mylonas and committee members. This inspection followed a letter from the school’s parents’ association, which expressed growing concerns over the condition of the building.
Constructed in the mid-1980s, the school has not seen any renovations since it opened. The parents’ association’s letter pointed out several pressing issues, including the multi-purpose hall, which is currently being used as both an event space and a classroom. This dual usage has raised significant concerns regarding the facility’s functionality.
Mylonas noted the limitations of the hall, indicating that activities such as gymnastics cannot occur during class hours due to the space’s dual purpose. Additionally, he acknowledged that the school houses several students with mobility difficulties, yet it lacks an elevator despite having an upper floor.
Praising the dedication of the teachers, Mylonas highlighted the school’s impressive track record, having received multiple awards for their efforts. However, he also pointed out that the ministry’s technical services had not yet received a formal request for an elevator installation, though the school’s tax office has promised to submit one soon, citing the availability of funds.
In a timeline provided by Mylonas, he stated that the education ministry’s technical services will issue a report on approved projects and timelines within the next 15 days. This report is anticipated to shed light on the future of the school’s renovation plans.
The president of the parents’ association, Panitsa Hadjiarapi, expressed her frustration over the lack of action regarding the school’s condition. She has been advocating for renovations for the past three years, both in writing and verbally, but has seen no significant changes since the school was built in 1986.
“We’ve reached the point of begging for rain only after 1.05pm because whenever it rains here it floods,” Hadjiarapi said, highlighting the urgent need for improvements. She accused officials of making empty promises regarding renovations, stating, “They mock us with renovation promises and do nothing. Only in the last one to one-and-a-half months have they done fake jobs, just painting to make the school prettier.”
Regarding the estimated cost of necessary improvements, Hadjiarapi mentioned that roofing and insulation works alone would amount to around €400,000. This figure underscores the significant financial investment required to address the school’s extensive renovation needs.
