The cultivation of historical literacy remains a vital component of citizenship education, Education Minister Athena Michaelidou said on Friday at the Cyprus Paedagogical Institute.

“Students who approach history as a process of investigation and documentation acquire valuable skills for active participation in modern society,” she said, adding that such an approach helps them understand the importance of democracy and develop respect for past human achievements.

Michaelidou stressed that history should not be seen merely as a “narrative of past events,” but as a complex discipline requiring modern teaching methods that promote critical thinking and deeper understanding.

Recognising the need for major reform in history education at all levels, she said the ministry was committed to overhauling how the subject is taught. “International research in history paedagogy shows that these changes can only be achieved through curriculum modernisation, updated teaching materials, and ongoing teacher training,” she said.

As part of this effort, the ministry is currently working to reduce and restructure the history curriculum. “We are promoting an epistemological approach to history, focusing on conceptual understanding and the development of skills related to the study of the past,” she explained.

The minister noted that revised primary education curricula are being piloted and evaluated throughout this school year to identify areas for improvement.

In parallel, efforts are underway to modernise teaching materials and implement professional development initiatives for history educators. “These changes aim to support teachers and enhance the quality of history education,” Michaelidou said.