In a historic moment for higher education in Cyprus, on May 5th, the Rectors of all universities in the country (12) signed a joined Memorandum of Cooperation, aiming to strengthen and promote equality, diversity and inclusion. The signing ceremony took place at the University of Cyprus, in the presence of the Commissioner for Gender Equality, Ms. Josie Christodoulou.
The signing of the Memorandum marks the culmination of a coordinated effort initiated by the Office of Diversity, Equality and Inclusivity at the University of Cyprus. The goal was to establish a common platform for dialogue and to shape a collective strategy on issues of equality and diversity in academia. The collaboration includes, among other things, the exchange of expertise and best practices, the implementation of joint educational and other initiatives, the networking of staff and units and the joined participation in research projects on related issues.
The following institutions signed the Memorandum: the University of Cyprus, the Open University of Cyprus, the European University Cyprus, the University of Limassol, the University of Nicosia, Neapolis University, the Cyprus University of Technology, the American University of Beirut – Mediterraneo, the American University of Cyprus, Frederick University, Philips University, and UCLan Cyprus.
This joint commitment opens new routes of cooperation, strengthens institutional cohesion, and shifts the culture of universities toward an even more inclusive and equitable academic environment.
For the Open University of Cyprus (OUC), the signing of this Memorandum of Cooperation represents a significant affirmation of its longstanding commitment to promoting equality, inclusion, and respect for diversity within higher education. As a distance learning institution with a diverse student body and academic community, OUC recognizes the importance of cultivating an inclusive academic environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, background, or identity.
