Breaking news

Cyprus Hosts UN’s New Space Office To Boost Disaster Response In The Eastern Mediterranean

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

Cyprus is making a significant leap onto the global stage in disaster management with the launch of a new space-based initiative. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence paves the way for the creation of a Regional Support Office (RSO) for the UN’s UN-SPIDER program, aimed at harnessing satellite technology to tackle disasters in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond.

This strategic partnership will strengthen regional and global efforts to use space-based tools for disaster management and risk reduction. The ERATOSTHENES CoE, known for its cutting-edge research in satellite and airborne remote sensing, will host the new RSO, bringing its advanced expertise to the UN-SPIDER network.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

The new office will focus on offering technical advisory support, capacity-building in space technology, and sharing knowledge from Earth Observation data to mitigate the impact of disasters. The RSO will also play a key role in providing real-time assistance during emergencies, ranging from earthquakes and forest fires to floods and coastal erosion.

Dr. Marios Tzouvaras, Research Coordinator at ERATOSTHENES CoE, highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that the center’s extensive research in satellite imagery and data analysis will play a crucial role in disaster risk reduction. “Our collaboration with UNOOSA will allow us to apply our long-term scientific knowledge to real-world challenges, not just for Cyprus but for the entire region,” Tzouvaras said.

With the agreement set to begin in February 2025, Cyprus is poised to become a central node in UNOOSA’s mission to bring space-based disaster response solutions to the global community. This partnership marks a crucial step in the evolution of disaster management, leveraging the power of space to save lives and reduce risks across multiple regions.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Sklavenitis Cyprus Sets A New Standard For Employee-Centric Benefits

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 12, 2025

Investing In Human Capital

In a bold move that underscores the growing importance of human capital in today’s business landscape, Sklavenitis Cyprus has taken innovative steps to ensure its workforce is both valued and supported. The supermarket chain has introduced a policy to pay a 14th salary to all employees—including those from Papantoniou Supermarkets—cementing its status as the sole retailer in Cyprus to implement such a comprehensive benefit.

A Significant Investment In People

This initiative is far from symbolic. With an estimated total cost of €2 million, it represents a committed investment in the company’s most valuable asset—its people. By providing an additional salary, Sklavenitis reinforces a culture of inclusivity and fairness, acknowledging every employee’s contribution to its success.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Robust Benefits For Long-Term Stability

Complementary to the 14th salary, the company has launched a robust benefits program designed to address both financial and personal security. An Automatic Cost of Living Adjustment (ATA) of 12.56 per cent ensures that wages remain aligned with inflation, safeguarding real income stability for its team members.

Comprehensive Health And Life Support

Sklavenitis further enhances employee welfare through access to a Group Life and Health Insurance Plan and a Provident Fund co-funded by the employer. These measures not only provide immediate protection but also empower employees to plan confidently for the future.

Exclusive Perks And Incentives

The company extends its commitment beyond conventional benefits by offering store discounts, a birth allowance, and holiday gift vouchers valued at €100 during both Easter and Christmas. These additional perks enhance employee satisfaction and underline Sklavenitis’ people-first ethos.

A Strategy For Mutual Success

In an industry where employee engagement directly impacts customer satisfaction, Sklavenitis’ comprehensive approach stands out as both a progressive and strategic business decision. By investing in its workforce, the company not only nurtures a supportive workplace but also drives superior corporate performance, setting a new benchmark for responsible employment practices in Cyprus.