The Cyprus University of Technology (Tepak) and the Chamber of Commerce of Famagusta this week announced that they will collaborate on the launch of a ‘free university’ initiative in Famagusta.  This initiative, the announcement explained, involves jointly organising a series of scientific lectures on topics of interest to the local community and the business community, in collaboration with other relevant entities.  The decision was made during an event held on Monday, May 22, 2023, at the University’s Rectorate building, where the renewal of the cooperation protocol between Tepak and the Famagusta Chamber of Commerce was signed.  Tepak rector Panayiotis Zaphiris signed the renewal on behalf of the university, while president Augoustinos Papathomas signed on behalf of the Famagusta Chamber of Commerce.  What is more, both Zaphiris and Papathomas expressed their joy and satisfaction regarding the continuation of the collaboration between the two organisations.  They also exchanged views and suggestions for further deepening cooperation in various areas, including lifelong learning and education.  According to the announcement, this will be achieved through a lecture series held in the Famagusta district as part of the free university initiative.  The objective of these lectures is to provide new knowledge, develop skills, and promote free thinking on a wide range of topics that interest the residents and entrepreneurs of the region.  These topics include entrepreneurship, tourism, economy, innovation, circular economy, high technology, artificial intelligence, and agriculture, with the academic staff of the University of Technology contributing their expertise.  In addition, the cooperation protocol also encompasses the organisation of joint cultural, scientific, and educational events and activities, the conduct of advisory and scientific studies, and participation in research and development programmes.  The agreement will also seek to boost the exchange of information and technical knowledge on common interests, as well as facilitate the placement of students in work environments for practical training.  The Tepak event was attended by professor and council president Christos Homatas, the Director of Administration and Finance Department Costas Hoppas, the Head of the Promotion and Internationalisation Service Marinos Voukis, and other members of the University’s administrative staff.  The Famagusta Chamber of Commerce was represented by board members Elina Patrioti, Constantinos Pierides, Rania Kyriakidou, as well as Elena Michaelides, the chamber’s general manager.  This is not the first time that the Cyprus University of Technology has collaborated with local and international organisations in its pursuit of synergies, joint initiatives, and the placement of its graduates in industrial positions.  In July 2022, Tepak entered into a partnership agreement with software company SoftOne Cyprus, seeking to boost collaborations in the field of information technology, including the design and development of software for business applications.  More recently, in January 2023, Tepak signed a cooperation agreement with Limassol port management company DP World Limassol, aiming to facilitate joint research projects, exchange personnel, and implement small-scale ventures.  In addition, as part of the agreement, DP World Limassol also pledged to continue to make internships available to Tepak students and support their research projects.  Finally, Tepak also came together with other Cyprus-based educational institutes, linking up with the University of Cyprus for a master’s degree in design for social innovation, as well as the Open University of Cyprus for a master’s degree in international shipping management. (ICE BEIRUT)

Fonte notizia: Cyprus Mail