Cyprus intends to develop co-operation with Mariupol University, which was evacuated from Mariupol after the outbreak of a full-scale war and continues to work on the Ukrainian-controlled territory. This was stated by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cyprus to Ukraine Michalis Firillas during a meeting with Interfax-Ukraine.
“Cyprus is a European hub of educational programmes, and we see great potential in cooperation with Ukrainian universities. In particular, we are interested in developing a partnership with Mariupol University, because it is Mariupol that has historically been the centre of the Greek community in Ukraine. This creates a natural bridge for educational and cultural projects,” the diplomat said.
Firilas emphasised that educational cooperation should become an important component of bilateral relations. “We are keen for students and teachers from Ukraine to have more opportunities to join Cyprus’ academic programmes, and for Cypriot universities to engage in joint research and exchanges,” he said.
According to the ambassador, Cyprus is also ready to expand scholarship programmes in cooperation with the University of Mariupol so that Ukrainian students can receive quality European education and participate in international academic initiatives. He added that this would contribute to the integration of Ukrainian educational institutions into the European academic space.