In the evolving educational landscape, the University of Cyprus (UCY) has established itself as a pioneering institution, renowned for its innovative studies and groundbreaking discoveries across various disciplines. Founded in 1992 and based in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, the university has built a legacy of scholarly influence that resonates worldwide.
UCY played a crucial role in a society that previously lacked university institutions. As the country’s first public university, it needed to educate the future workforce and serve as a catalyst for positive societal change. Thirty-five years after its establishment, UCY’s recognition internationally is not merely an abstract accolade; it is reflected in the university’s consistent output of high impact research, the extensive publication output of its faculty, and its capacity to secure significant research funding.
The Key Inspiration for Joining UCY
Jiyuan Dai, Lecturer at the Department of Accounting and Finance, was inspired to join the university for several key factors. The university is known for its research excellence and distinguished academic reputation. Additionally, the impressive background of her colleagues and the potential for building a substantial research network and collaboration with others were significant factors in her decision.
UCYis committed to fostering innovation and provides the necessary tools for impactful research. Its supportive atmosphere encourages scholarly debate, which has laid a solid foundation for Jiyuan’s aspirations. Moreover, the university’s emphasis on cross-disciplinary research, facilitated through specialized research centres and collaborative platforms, further fuelled her enthusiasm.
A key factor in her decision was the university’s extensive research network. The institution has partnerships with leading universities, research institutes and the industry, creating a platform for impactful and innovative work. Additionally, access to state-of-the-art facilities and various funding opportunities further motivated her. Knowing that the university prioritizes research and offers both financial and technical support reassured Jiyuan that she could pursue ambitious projects without unnecessary hindrance.
Moreover, the university’s emphasis on creating research that addresses urgent global challenges resonated with Jiyuan’s mission to contribute meaningfully to society.
This alignment with broader objectives made her confident that her work would not only advance her field, but also provide solutions to pressing societal issues.
Striving to Turn its Vision into a Reality
UCY is actively advancing toward its vision of becoming a “Centre of Excellence” in the Euro Mediterranean region with a strong emphasis on groundbreaking research and innovation. Since Cyprus joined the EU in 2004, UCY has secured over €150 million in competitive funding through EU programmes, achieving great success under Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe. In particular, UCY leads Cyprus in EU research funding, having secured 29 prestigious European Research Council (ERC) grants, 5 Teaming Centres of Excellence, and a Marie Skłodowska Curie COFUND, which supports 50 postdoctoral researchers in carrying out cutting-edge research. Additionally, UCY’s membership in the Young Universities for the Future of Europe (YUFE) Alliance since 2019, has greatly enhanced its European orientation, fostering collaboration with top European universities that are frontrunners in research.
Integrating AI and Online Learning in Education
The University of Cyprus (UCY) is actively embracing AI and online learning by integrating these technologies into its teaching methods. Through its digital platform, the university currently employs AI tools that are accessible to course instructors.
In response to the rapid advancements in the field of AI, UCY has established the Ad-hoc Committee for Artificial Intelligence. This committee is responsible for implementing recommendations and policies for the use of AI in both research and education within the university community. Starting from the Fall Semester of 2023- 2024, the university has implemented guidelines for the ethical use of AI in the academic process. Moreover, the Ad-hoc Committee has organized informative seminars to discuss the developments, opportunities, and challenges associated with using AI in academia.
Emerging technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and AI are set to revolutionize education at UCY. These technologies offer immersive learning environments and personalized experiences. Currently, several faculty members are integrating AI tools into their courses. For example, they utilize AI chatbots specifically designed to answer student questions based on the course curriculum. Additionally, the university is exploring the future use of AI-powered virtual assistants and AI-driven VR to enrich the student experience and enhance learning outcomes.
Fostering Inclusivity and Ensuring Equal Opportunities
UCY is committed to the fair and impartial treatment of all individuals and to creating an environment that encourages and respects diversity while ensuring dignity for everyone, both in the workplace and in society at large. Recognizing that people have different backgrounds and perspectives, UCY has established specific policies to understand and respect diversity while promoting equal opportunities. Various tools and practices effectively manage these differences. UCY is dedicated to maintaining a teaching and learning environment that is free from any form of discrimination, whether direct or indirect.
The UCY Gender Equality Plan 2022-2025 includes several actions, such as (a) creating mentoring structures for the underrepresented gender in specific fields of study and (b) providing support for underrepresented gender in specific fields (for example, women in STEM) by promoting role models.
Equipping Students with Digital and Technological Skills
Equipping students with digital and technological skills, UCY integrates online digital platforms into its teaching methodologies, making these tools essential for classroom instruction, academic communication, and collaborative work. These platforms not only enhance effective knowledge sharing, but also provide students with hands on experience in using technology to communicate and collaborate—skills that are critical in today’s interconnected, digital world.
To further support students’ technological readiness, UCY maintains state-of-the-art computer labs across its campus. These labs are equipped with modern hardware and software, ensuring that students have consistent access to cutting-edge technology and digital resources. By offering a robust technological infrastructure, UCY helps bridge the digital divide, allowing all students—regardless of background—to fully engage with digital learning tools and develop essential technical proficiencies.
Future Roadmap with its Commitment to the Local Community
Despite operating in a relatively small geographical area, UCY has established strong connections with the local and international communities. Through close collaboration, it offers solutions to challenges in several areas, including the environment, health, education, and the economy, as well as in issues unique to Cyprus, such as Mediterranean marine ecosystems, regional peacebuilding, and heritage preservation.
Today, UCY’s strategic plan for the future revolves around nurturing academic excellence both in research and innovation, as well as fostering sustainability, and actively contributing to the cultural and societal fabric. Through these endeavours, the university aims not only to meet the challenges of the future but also to emerge as a trailblazer in the global academic landscape. As UCY continues to evolve, its commitment to excellence, innovation, and societal impact remains unwavering.
