Nicosia: Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides inaugurated the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA)-Nicosia campus and described the event as a “historic day.”
According to Cyprus News Agency, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, which was founded in 1837, is set to operate four Schools and eight Departments in Cyprus, offering courses in Greek and English in Nicosia and Larnaca. This marks the first time a Greek university has established a branch outside Greece. The inauguration included the Medical School, student dormitories, and other facilities in central Nicosia, attended by various dignitaries and students.
President Christodoulides, himself an NKUA alumnus, highlighted the significance of the university’s presence in Cyprus, calling it a milestone in the effort to internationalize and enhance Higher Education in the country. He emphasized the strategic goal of establishing Cyprus as a regional center of knowledge, research, and innovation, which would bring numerous benefits to society and the economy.
The President noted the collaborative opportunities and academic prospects that come with the presence of the University of Athens, reinforcing ties with Greece. He also stressed the government’s support for initiatives that enhance Higher Education and foster international collaborations, aiming to position Cyprus as an international educational hub.
Archbishop Georgios of Cyprus, also an NKUA graduate, praised the university’s contribution to Cypriot Hellenism. He recalled how the University of Athens accepted many Cypriot students without entrance exams, fostering Greek education on the island. He asserted that this educational foundation helped the island endure foreign dominations.
Rector of NKUA, Gerasimos Siasos, spoke about the university’s historic move to establish a branch in Cyprus. He announced future academic plans, including launching several departments and programs by 2026. Siasos expressed gratitude to those who made this project possible, highlighting the longstanding relationship between Greece and Cyprus.
Nicosia’s Mayor, Charalambos Prountzos, welcomed the NKUA branch, emphasizing its role in strengthening educational ties and enhancing Nicosia’s status as an educational hub. He noted increased investment interest in the city and urged the President to consider expanding the student housing subsidy scheme. Prountzos assured students of the city’s support during their academic journey.