Multi-Million Euro Deal In Paphos: Old American Academy Transformed Into British-Owned Educational Institution

In a significant development for Cyprus’ educational landscape, the historic American Academy in Paphos has been sold and will be transformed into a British-owned educational institution. This multi-million euro deal marks a pivotal moment for the local education sector, promising to elevate the standards and reputation of Paphos as a hub for high-quality international education.

The American Academy, a landmark institution in Paphos, has long been revered for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. Its transformation under British ownership is set to introduce a new era of educational innovation and international collaboration. The acquisition by British interests underscores the growing appeal of Cyprus as a destination for international education investment, driven by its strategic location, favourable climate, and robust educational framework.

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The new British educational institution will benefit from substantial investments aimed at upgrading and expanding the existing infrastructure. These enhancements will include state-of-the-art classrooms, modern science laboratories, advanced sports facilities, and comprehensive digital learning environments. The focus will be on creating a holistic educational experience that combines academic rigour with extracurricular development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the globalised world.

The institution will offer a diverse curriculum designed to meet international standards, providing students with opportunities to pursue the International Baccalaureate (IB), A-Levels, and other globally recognised qualifications. This curriculum will not only attract local students but also appeal to the expatriate community and international students seeking high-quality education in a supportive and multicultural environment.

One of the key aspects of this transformation is the emphasis on fostering strong ties between the educational institution and the local community. The British owners are committed to maintaining the legacy of the American Academy by continuing its tradition of community engagement and social responsibility. This includes partnerships with local businesses, cultural organisations, and government bodies to promote educational initiatives and community development projects.

The investment in the Paphos educational sector is expected to have a broader economic impact, generating employment opportunities for local educators, administrative staff, and support services. It will also attract families and professionals to the region, boosting the local economy and contributing to the socio-economic development of Paphos.

Furthermore, the presence of a high-calibre British educational institution in Paphos will enhance the city’s reputation as a centre for academic excellence and innovation. It will draw international attention, positioning Paphos as a competitive destination for educational tourism. This is particularly significant in the context of the global education market, where parents and students are increasingly seeking schools that offer a blend of rigorous academics, cultural exposure, and holistic development.

The transformation of the American Academy into a British-owned institution reflects the broader trends of globalisation and international collaboration in education. It signifies a commitment to providing students with a world-class education that equips them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

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Limassol Port Electrification Awaits Grid Connection And EU Funding

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 14, 2026

Plans to equip Limassol port with shore-side electricity are advancing at the technical level, but unresolved administrative procedures, a pending grid connection and the need to secure European funding continue to delay implementation.

The proposed shore-power system, also known as cold ironing, would allow vessels to connect to electricity while berthed, reducing reliance on onboard engines and cutting emissions and noise in the surrounding area.

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Technical Studies Near Completion

Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki said work is progressing through the EU-backed DecarbonLim programme, which is preparing the technical assessment and feasibility study required before construction can begin. The ministry is seeking regular updates from the Cyprus Ports Authority on the studies’ completion timetable.

The initiative also involves Frederick University, Eurogate Container Terminal Limassol, DP World Limassol, the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Cyprus Transmission System Operator and Limassol Municipality.

Grid Connection Remains A Key Hurdle

Despite progress on the studies, construction cannot proceed until the project secures a connection to the national transmission network.

Tsolaki said the ministry has requested land from the Department of Lands and Surveys for an electricity substation. Once the site is allocated, the relevant applications can be submitted to the Cyprus Transmission System Operator to advance the grid-connection process.

Until these steps are completed, the project will remain in the preparatory phase, even if the technical studies are finalised.

European Funding Adds Urgency

The feasibility work under DecarbonLim will support an application for construction financing, Tsolaki said. A competitive European funding call is currently open, and the ministry intends to submit an application within the required timeframe.

The funding window has raised concerns in parliament. MP Fotini Tsiridou warned that further delays could undermine Cyprus’ chances of securing EU support, noting that similar port electrification projects elsewhere in the bloc have already received funding.

Speaking to Entrepreneurial Limassol, published by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tsiridou said she had observed some progress but had yet to receive a formal response to her parliamentary question.

Environmental And Commercial Benefits

Tsiridou argued that shore-side electricity would deliver benefits beyond emissions reductions, including less noise and air pollution for residents near the port.

“Our port should not be disconnected from the rest of the city,” she said, describing shore-power infrastructure as both a necessity and a European obligation.

Across Europe, port electrification is increasingly linked to environmental performance and competitiveness. By allowing compatible vessels to switch off auxiliary engines while docked, shore-power systems can reduce local emissions and noise while supporting wider decarbonisation goals.

Construction Timetable Still Unclear

The Cyprus Ports Authority signed a contract with DBA S.p.A. in July 2025 for a comprehensive study of the system’s technical, economic and environmental requirements. The work was intended to establish the basis for installation and identify any necessary port infrastructure upgrades.

More than a year later, key steps concerning land allocation, grid connection and financing remain unresolved. No timetable has been announced for completing these procedures or submitting the final funding application.

Limassol’s shore-power project therefore remains between planning and implementation. Its next milestones are securing the substation site, progressing the transmission-network application and obtaining construction financing. Until these are in place, the port’s transition to shore-side electricity cannot move into the construction phase.

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