Children in occupied Cyprus are reportedly fainting from hunger in schools, highlighting a dire situation exacerbated by the ongoing economic crisis and soaring living costs. Cansu N. Nazlı, a member of the “Independence Road” party, brought this alarming issue to light during a recent statement.
According to Nazlı, the phenomenon has reached a critical point, with many children experiencing severe hunger while attending school. She expressed her deep concern, stating, “There are children (in the occupied territories) who faint in schools from hunger,” and called for urgent measures to address this troubling reality.
In her appeal, Nazlı emphasised the need for the immediate provision of free meals to all students, asserting that access to healthy nutrition is a fundamental right of every child. She urged the ministry of education to cooperate with the social services agency and local municipalities to implement a comprehensive free meal programme.
Furthermore, Nazlı highlighted the need to rethink financial allocations within the education system. She proposed the abolition of financial incentives for private schools, suggesting that those resources should be redirected to support public schools. “Ensuring safe and healthy food for children is the duty of the state,” she asserted, stressing the importance of prioritising the needs of students in the public sector.
The situation has drawn attention from various quarters, with advocates calling for immediate action to prevent further suffering among children in the region. As the economic crisis continues, the plight of these vulnerable students raises critical questions about the responsibilities of authorities in ensuring their well-being.
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