Nicosia: The Cypriot government is committed to further strengthening the field of research and innovation, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nikodemos Damianou said on Friday, addressing the award ceremony of the European Researchers’ Night 2025. The event, organised by the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), was held at the State Fair grounds in Nicosia under the auspices of the President of the Republic.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Damianou congratulated the RIF for hosting what he described as a highly significant event, noting that nearly 3,000 children visited the venue earlier in the day. ‘That fact alone speaks volumes,’ he said, adding that the event demonstrates the growing vibrancy of Cyprus’ research and innovation ecosystem. He congratulated all the children who participated in the competitions, stressing the government’s determination to further empower this sector.
Addressing young people, RIF Director General Theodoros Loukaidis encouraged them not to fear making mistakes and to continue learning. ‘Great scientists are not born, they are built through persistence,’ he said. He noted that for the 19th consecutive year, RIF has brought this major celebration of science, research and innovation to Cyprus, connecting thousands of visitors with those who dare to dream, experiment, discover and create the future.
‘This event has shown that curiosity, creativity and courage are not simply virtues, they are the driving forces of innovation and of shaping our society’s future,’ Loukaidis added. He further noted that RIF remains dedicated to supporting young minds, researchers and businesses by providing tools and opportunities for research and innovation to flourish in Cyprus.
Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology and RIF Board Chairman Dimitris Skourides also addressed the event, noting that Cyprus has made significant progress in recent years. With the talent and creativity of its researchers, the country now ranks among the most innovative in Europe, he said. ‘This year, for the first time, Cyprus achieved 25th place in the Global Innovation Index 2025, joining the category of Innovation Leaders,’ he added.
Skourides said the growing participation and enthusiasm of children and visitors show that the European Researchers’ Night has become a first-class institution, highlighting the work of Cyprus’ research and academic community while inspiring a new generation. He urged young contestants to keep thinking ‘outside the box’ and to believe in their ability to change the world.
This year’s event, held under the theme ‘Mission Possible’, included competitions, interactive experiments, live discussions and activities designed to bring the public closer to science and research. The European Researchers’ Night has been organised in Cyprus since 2006 by the RIF in collaboration with universities, research centres, NGOs and businesses. The Cyprus News Agency is a media sponsor of the event.