The Cyprus Computer Society (CCS) has urged policymakers to turn Cyprus’ National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2032 into a funded implementation plan with measurable outcomes, saying ambition alone will not create a competitive AI economy.
In its public consultation submission, CCS welcomed the strategy as a step toward a coordinated national approach to AI and credited Chief Scientist Demetris Skourides and the National AI Taskforce for developing the framework. Skourides’ LinkedIn profile
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From Strategy To Implementation
CCS submitted 33 recommendations covering implementation, governance, infrastructure, skills, responsible AI and economic development. It said the strategy addresses the main areas but now needs clear mechanisms to deliver measurable results.
A Funded Plan With Clear Accountability
CCS called for a single, costed implementation plan specifying investments, funding sources, timelines and spending for major programs. It also wants clearer accountability over implementation, including responsibility for budgets, underperforming initiatives and missed national targets.
Public Procurement Could Support Local AI
The society proposed using public procurement to help stimulate local AI innovation, with the state acting as an early customer for Cypriot startups and small and medium-sized enterprises. Early contracts could give local companies reference customers, help validate their products and support expansion into international markets.
Measuring AI’s Economic Impact
CCS called for an economic scorecard covering AI-related exports, revenue generated in Cyprus, locally created intellectual property, private investment, high-productivity jobs and research commercialization. The society said these measures would provide a clearer assessment of whether the strategy is generating economic value.
Skills Need To Match Demand
CCS questioned whether a target of about 3,000 AI professionals is sufficient without a clearer assessment of workforce needs. It recommended distinguishing between researchers, AI engineers, data specialists, applied AI professionals and sector-specific experts, arguing that training numbers alone do not show whether the right skills are reaching the economy.
Governance For Generative AI And AI Agents
CCS also called for a governance framework covering the use of large language models in government, confidential information, AI-agent actions, reliability, copyright, synthetic content, deepfakes and human oversight. As these systems move into operational use, the society said Cyprus needs rules that address their expanding role and associated risks.
Human-Centered And Inclusive AI
The recommendations include algorithmic bias assessments, stronger AI literacy, accessibility requirements for citizen-facing services and greater participation by women and underrepresented groups. CCS also proposed stronger representation of equality mechanisms and people with disabilities in national AI governance.
Success Will Be Measured By Results
CCS said the strategy should ultimately be judged by outcomes such as higher productivity, improved public services, a stronger AI workforce, successful technology companies, increased exports and research commercialization.
Cyprus Computer Society is a professional, scientific and independent non-profit organization representing more than 1,500 members in Cyprus’ information technology sector. It promotes digital skills, education, research and professional standards and participates in European and international technology projects.
