Marina Neophytou, Rector of the University of Cyprus, discusses the reasons why she ran for the position of Rector as well as her vision from the studio of the “Alpha Enimerosi” program.
“One reason I decided to run is precisely because I have many years ahead of me and I would like to help shape the university I would like to see, with a specific vision. There are so many things happening around us, so many developments. The university needs to keep pace with these changes. The University of Cyprus is an institutional success in the history of Cyprus—we must acknowledge that—but as it marks its 40th anniversary, it is called upon to address some new challenges: namely, how an institution modernizes, how it improves, and how it ensures that it can continually evolve in step with the developments of its time.”
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
He noted that we are going through a pivotal period, highlighting the critical role of the university in a global environment marked by violence, wars, social inequalities, and technological advancements in artificial intelligence.
“I believe it should strengthen its role and its relationship with society. It should be a catalyst for societal progress, because the truth is that in such an environment, people often feel powerless and stop—which is critical—believing that they can change things. And I believe that the University of Cyprus has a decisive role to play—not only through its independent scholarly research, but also, more broadly, through its autonomy and the provision of an independent perspective, to contribute to this progress and the empowerment of society.”
She emphasizes that the university’s role is not merely to impart knowledge.
Ms. Neophytou states that she aims to foster a new dynamic from within and chart a new course regarding the issues that concern society and how co-creation with society is achieved.
“It is important to remember that the University of Cyprus was founded with the aim of promoting cooperation between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, but it is also for all religious groups, for all Cypriots. So, part of that is ensuring it is accessible and inclusive. But, of course, we’re currently striving to provide equal opportunities so that, once students—both male and female—enroll at the University of Cyprus, they have access to affordable housing, food, and transportation.”
“We want to create a campus that will be not only a city of knowledge but also of creativity for all students; it is extremely important that there be equal opportunities,” he concluded.
