Alexander Shkuratov: The education landscape in Cyprus is undergoing a significant transformation

With a unique educational approach and the launch of 50 fully funded STEM scholarships, The Island Private School is paving the way for the next generation of innovators.

The school’s founder & CEO, Alexander Shkuratov, a visionary entrepreneur in technology and education, shares his insights on education, innovation and the future of learning in Cyprus.

What inspired you to establish The Island Private School and how does it differ from other private educational institutions in Cyprus?

The inspiration behind The Island Private School stemmed from the need for a truly holistic and future-focused education in Cyprus. As an entrepreneur in education, I recognised that traditional schooling models often fall short in preparing students for the rapidly evolving world. I envisioned a school that not only fosters academic excellence but also nurtures curiosity, critical thinking and adaptability – qualities essential for the future. What sets The Island Private School apart is our polysystemic approach, which integrates the International Baccalaureate (IB), Waldorf and Montessori methodologies. This fusion creates a rich, interdisciplinary learning environment, where students develop leadership, creativity and problem-solving skills alongside a strong academic foundation. Additionally, we offer a truly international experience, with a faculty representing over 30 nationalities, ensuring that students gain a global perspective from an early age.

What is the core philosophy/educational approach of The Island Private School, and how do you ensure that it is implemented in the school’s daily operations?

Our core philosophy revolves around holistic education – developing students academically, emotionally and socially. Education should be a transformative experience, empowering students to become well-rounded individuals equipped with the knowledge and skills to have a meaningful impact on the world. To bring this vision to life, our curriculum balances academic rigour with experiential learning. Students engage in project-based learning, interdisciplinary studies and hands-on activities, ensuring that classroom knowledge translates into real-world applications. Our wellbeing programme supports students’ emotional and psychological growth, while our entrepreneurship and innovation initiatives inspire them to think beyond traditional career paths.

You recently announced the launch of 50 fully-funded scholarships for talented students. What can you tell us about the inspiration behind this initiative?

The Technology Leaders of the Future (TLF) Scholarship Programme reflects our commitment to making world-class education accessible to exceptionally gifted students, regardless of their financial background. In today’s world, access to quality education can define a student’s ability to shape the future. We want to ensure that the brightest minds have the opportunity to excel, innovate and lead – whether in academia, business or technology. The scholarships cover boarding and tuition fees through graduation and continue to support successful students as they transition to top universities. By offering these scholarships, we aim to create a dynamic and stimulating environment, where talented students from different backgrounds can challenge and inspire one another. This initiative aligns with our vision to establish The Island Private School as a hub for global talent and innovation.

What criteria will be used to select the 50 scholarship recipients? Are there specific academic, extracurricular or personal qualities that you are looking for?

The selection process for the TLF Scholarship Programme is designed to identify exceptional Grade 9 and 10 students, starting in September 2025, who demonstrate outstanding talent, dedication and ambition in mathematics, physics and computer science. Candidates will be assessed based on their academic excellence, a strong record in STEM subjects, as well as their problem-solving abilities and creativity. We are looking for individuals who think outside the box, are naturally curious and enjoy tackling complex challenges. An entrepreneurial mindset is also highly valued, whether demonstrated through participation in hackathons, coding projects or innovative personal initiatives. Additionally, we seek students with commitment and resilience, those who can thrive in a demanding academic environment. The selection process includes application reviews, entrance examinations and interviews, ensuring that successful candidates possess the skills, drive and potential to excel.

What are the main challenges that you faced when founding and developing the school? How did you overcome them?

Establishing a school of this calibre came with its challenges. One major obstacle was designing an educational model that seamlessly combines multiple methodologies while maintaining high academic standards. We overcame this by assembling a diverse team of educational experts who helped refine our curriculum and pedagogical approach. Another challenge was attracting the right faculty – educators who are not only highly qualified but also embody our vision of innovation and holistic education. We have built a strong international team by focusing on our mission-driven approach, creating an environment where educators can thrive. Lastly, building trust within the local and international community was crucial. Through transparency and strategic partnerships and by consistently delivering high-quality education, we have positioned The Island Private School as a globally respected institution.

How do you see the education landscape evolving in Cyprus and what role will The Island Private School play in shaping its future?

The education landscape in Cyprus is undergoing a significant transformation, with an increasing demand for innovation, personalised learning and international standards. As the world becomes more interconnected and technology-driven, the integration of technology, creativity and entrepreneurship into education is no longer optional – it is essential.

At The Island Private School, we are at the forefront of this shift, introducing progressive teaching methodologies, fostering global collaboration and providing students with access to cutting-edge resources. Our TLF Scholarship Programme is a testament to our commitment to developing the next generation of tech innovators and we believe that this initiative will set a new benchmark for educational excellence in Cyprus and beyond.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand our partnerships with universities, research institutions and technology companies worldwide, ensuring that our students have a direct pathway to higher education and career opportunities in the global economy. Our mission is clear: to create an ecosystem where students don’t just learn about the future – they actively shape it. With a vision to redefine education, we are dedicated to building an environment where young minds are not just passive learners but active creators and leaders. Through our focus on academic excellence, innovation and accessibility, we are setting a new standard for education in Cyprus and beyond. The launch of the TLF Scholarship Programme marks an exciting new chapter, and we look forward to welcoming the next generation of brilliant minds who will drive the world forward.

(Photo by Michalis Kyprianou)

This Special Feature was first published in the March issue of GOLD magazine. To view it click here