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Tag: Cyprus University of Technology

  • Equality framework — Cyprus University of Technology Unveils Ambitious Equality Framework for 2025-2028

    Equality framework — Cyprus University of Technology Unveils Ambitious Equality Framework for 2025-2028

    equality framework — equality framework — Cyprus University of Technology is setting a new standard for equity with its comprehensive 2025-2028 Equality and Accessibility Plan. This initiative builds on years of policies designed to foster a safe and inclusive academic and work environment, underscoring the university’s commitment to equality, inclusion, and respect for diversity.

    The new plan aims to create a culture of acceptance and support within the university community by integrating principles of equality and inclusion into every aspect of university life, from education to administration. Officer Constantia Kousoulou highlighted that these principles are not seen as isolated measures but as essential values that underpin the institution’s strategic goals.

    The previous 2020-2024 Equality Plan laid the groundwork for this new initiative, focusing on creating a more inclusive environment. This was further enhanced by the Equal Access Plan for People with Disabilities and Special Educational Needs. Following a thorough review and engagement with the university community, the latest plan consolidates the goals of these earlier frameworks.

    Equality framework: Five Pillars of Progress

    The 2025-2028 Equality and Accessibility Plan is structured around five key pillars:

    • Fostering an organisational culture of equality and inclusion.
    • Providing access and support for individuals with disabilities and special educational needs.
    • Ensuring equal support for professional career development.
    • Incorporating gender perspectives and accessibility into funding, research, and teaching.
    • Implementing a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, discrimination, harassment, and gender-based violence.

    To facilitate the implementation of these policies, CUT has established the University Equality Committee, which operates at the Senate level, alongside the Diversity and Inclusion Office. This office is instrumental in coordinating training and awareness initiatives aimed at the university community.

    Collaborative Efforts Across Europe

    In addition to its internal initiatives, CUT is a member of the European University of Technology (EUt+) alliance, collaborating with eight other European institutions through the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Office. This partnership fosters the exchange of best practices and the execution of joint actions that enhance the equality dimension at a European scale.

    Kousoulou noted a positive shift in attitudes within the university community, particularly with the adoption of inclusive language in official communications. The university is committed to continuous improvement through training and awareness campaigns, as well as the systematic collection and analysis of gender data to support evidence-based policy planning.

    Accessibility as a Priority

    Central to CUT’s strategy is the commitment to accessibility and equal opportunities for all members of the community. This encompasses not only physical access to facilities but also participation in educational, research, and professional activities. The university is actively investing in both physical and digital infrastructure to ensure that all educational materials, electronic platforms, and administrative processes are accessible.

    To support individuals with disabilities or special educational needs, CUT provides necessary adaptations and assistive technologies, allowing for equal participation in the educational experience. The university also collaborates with specialised organisations to create an inclusive environment where all community members can thrive.

    Recognition and Future Goals

    Recently, CUT received the “Employer of Equality” award, which acknowledges its sustained efforts to promote equality and inclusion within the academic and professional spheres. This recognition not only affirms the university’s commitment to transparency and equal opportunities but also serves as a motivational tool to enhance ongoing efforts.

    Looking ahead, CUT plans to revise its Code of Practice for the prevention and handling of bullying, harassment, and sexual harassment in 2026, aiming to make it more inclusive and accessible. The university is also dedicated to addressing issues relevant to underrepresented groups and actively involving students as agents of positive change both within and outside the institution.

  • Tepak — Tepak to Enrol 1,000 New Students for the Upcoming Academic Year

    Tepak — Tepak to Enrol 1,000 New Students for the Upcoming Academic Year

    The Cyprus University of Technology (Tepak) is preparing to welcome 1,000 new students in the upcoming academic year, comprising 800 undergraduate and 200 postgraduate students. This significant influx marks a notable increase compared to previous years, largely attributed to the introduction of four new academic programmes set to launch next Monday.

    Tepak: Orientation Week for New Students

    This week, Tepak organised an information and orientation week for newly enrolled students. Senior university officer Antonis Vrasida explained that this initiative aims to familiarise students with their chosen study programmes and ensure a smooth transition as classes commence. “We want our new students to feel prepared and supported as they start their academic journey,” Vrasida noted.

    Increased Enrollment Due to New Programmes

    The rise in the number of new students is a positive development for Tepak, with Vrasida highlighting that the newly offered programmes have been a key factor in attracting more applicants. This year’s cohort reflects the university’s growing reputation and commitment to expanding its academic offerings.

    Addressing Student Housing Challenges

    In light of ongoing concerns regarding affordable student housing, Vrasida indicated that approximately half of all students at Tepak receive assistance with housing each year. He stated, “Around 700 students out of the approximately 1,400 who request assistance with housing issues each year are supported.” This support comes in the form of accommodation in university dormitories or rental allowances.

    University Accommodation Options

    Tepak provides around 300 beds in dormitories located near the main campus in Limassol, with 200 of these in a building complex managed by the Holy Synod. Additionally, the university collaborates with the Paphos municipality to offer a further 150 dormitory placements at its second campus.

    Rental Allowance Support

    This year, approximately 300 students will receive a rental allowance of €250 per month for the 10-month academic year. Vrasida emphasised the university’s commitment to ensuring that students have access to safe and affordable housing as they pursue their studies.

    Future Developments in Student Housing

    Looking ahead, Vrasida expressed optimism about the completion of privately owned dormitories in Kato Polemidia, a suburb of Limassol. He stated that the first phase of these developments is expected to add 150 beds this academic year, with a total of 500 beds projected by 2027. “If things go well, the [private] dormitories will be fully completed by 2027, allowing us to provide all first-year students with dormitory placements automatically,” he added.

    Wider Support for Older Students

    In addition to first-year students, Tepak aims to extend its housing support to older students facing significant housing challenges. Vrasida highlighted that the university is making concerted efforts to streamline the approval process for dormitory placements, allowing students more time to find suitable accommodation if necessary.

    Enhanced Student Welfare Services

    Over the summer, Tepak’s student welfare services have been working diligently to enhance the support available to students. “A lot of effort is being made to ensure our services can respond promptly, helping students secure housing in a timely manner,” Vrasida remarked.

    New Students by Campus

    Of the new 800 undergraduate students, 600 will be studying at Tepak’s main campus in Limassol, while the remaining 200 will attend the Paphos campus. This distribution underscores the university’s commitment to serving a diverse student population across its campuses.

    As Tepak prepares to welcome this new cohort of students, the university continues to focus on providing a supportive and enriching environment for all its learners. With an increased number of programmes and enhanced housing support, Tepak is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its student body.

  • Tepak farm — Tepak Farm Faces €80,000 Repairs After Wildfire Devastation

    Tepak farm — Tepak Farm Faces €80,000 Repairs After Wildfire Devastation

    Tepak farm, part of the Cyprus University of Technology, is facing significant repair costs of approximately €80,000 following damage from a recent wildfire in Limassol.

    • Tepak farm, part of the Cyprus University of Technology, is facing significant repair costs of approximately €80,000 following damage from a recent wildfire in Limassol.

    A detailed report, prepared by the Department of Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology and Food Science, has been submitted to the university’s rectorate. Professor Demetris Tsaltas indicated that the funds are primarily needed for replacing equipment destroyed in the blaze.

    Tepak farm: Wildfire’s Impact on Agriculture

    The wildfire, which broke out on July 23 in the wine villages of Limassol, affected the farm’s 16 hectares of cultivated land, including greenhouses, offices, and storage areas. While many of the crops, such as vineyards and fruit-bearing plants, escaped direct contact with the flames, the extreme temperatures scorched the exterior of some plants.

    Assessing Damage and Recovery

    Professor Tsaltas explained that the situation remains fluid, as the coming weeks will reveal which plants can be salvaged and which need to be replaced. He expressed concern that this year’s production will suffer losses, along with potential impacts on next year’s yields.

    Students conducting research projects at the farm have also been affected. To mitigate the damage, efforts are underway to manually water some plants, enabling students to continue their work despite the adversity.

    Plans for Restoration

    The aim is to minimise disruption to research and teaching at the farm, with hopes to restore operations by the 2026–27 academic year. The speed at which restoration funds are released will play a critical role in purchasing necessary equipment and materials.

    Initial inspections have revealed some positive signs, with certain trees showing signs of life despite their damaged appearance. However, Tsaltas cautioned that determining the true extent of recovery will require weeks or even months. The forthcoming winter and spring months are seen as crucial for the farm’s resurgence.

    Environmental Concerns

    In addition to the visible damage, Tsaltas noted potential long-term impacts on soil quality due to pollutants from the fire. Concerns have been raised regarding toxic substances that may leach into groundwater, posing further challenges for future cultivation.

    The Role of Sustainable Practices

    In discussions surrounding fire prevention, Tsaltas highlighted the importance of maintaining well-cultivated areas. He mentioned that isolated crops surrounded by uncultivated land could limit fire spread, but stressed that heat stress would still affect production. Maintaining agricultural areas is vital to preserving their character and reducing vulnerability to such disasters.

    Moreover, grazing practices can assist in managing low vegetation, reducing the risk of future fires. As efforts to restore Tepak farm continue, the focus will remain on sustainable agricultural practices to safeguard against future threats.