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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.

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.

Delayed Cyprus Fuel Terminal Adds €1.67 Million To 2026 Budget Allocation

A delay in completing Cyprus’ strategic petroleum-products terminal has shifted €1.67 million in expected payments into the 2026 budget, prompting a revised budget allocation for the state’s fuel-storage organization, CODAP. The project was completed on June 30, 2026, later than the December 2025 handover originally anticipated.

The change in timing has altered the project’s payment schedule, but it will not increase CODAP’s overall 2026 budget of €111.3 million. After contractual deductions for the delay, payments to the contractor are expected to total €48.2 million, compared with the original contract value of €51 million.

Why The Budget Is Being Revised

When CODAP prepared its 2026 budget in June 2025, it expected construction to finish by the end of that year. The organization therefore forecast that the main payments to the contractor would be made during 2025 and included lower construction funding in its 2026 budget.

But delays by the contractor pushed completion to June 30, 2026. As a result, payments that had been expected earlier must now be covered through a budget amendment. The revised allocation will be discussed by Parliament’s Finance Committee on Friday.

Of the €1.67 million adjustment, €1.27 million relates to the first half of the contractor’s retention payment, which is payable upon handover under the contract. The remaining half is due 24 months after delivery.

A further €250,000 is set aside for work that has not yet been certified. The contractor is expected to complete these non-critical items during 2026. Another €150,000 covers payments to the project’s engineering consultants, whose fees are linked to construction progress and completion.

Contractual Deductions Reduce The Final Cost

CODAP withheld €1.27 million from the contractor in 2025 because of the late delivery. The deduction represents the maximum penalty stipulated in the contract: 2.5% of the contract value, applied in response to the delay against the agreed construction period of 24 months.

After accounting for that deduction and the scheduled retention payment, the total amount expected to be paid to the contractor is €48.2 million—below the original €51 million contract price.

A Critical Part Of Cyprus’ Fuel Reserves

The terminal is located at the Vasilikos Energy Centre and has seven petroleum-product storage tanks. It holds most of Cyprus’ fuel reserves, which are intended to help protect the country against supply disruptions.

Countries are required to maintain fuel stocks equivalent to 90 days of consumption. Those reserves must remain available for release to the market if supply problems arise, making the terminal a key part of Cyprus’ energy-security infrastructure.

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