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Cyprus Open University Kicks Off AI Project To Shape Public Engagement

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 20, 2025

The Cyprus Center for Trustworthy AI (CyCAT) at the Open University of Cyprus (OUC) has launched PINNACLE—a groundbreaking initiative designed to evaluate AI’s role in education and system benchmarking. Backed by €150,000 in funding from the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation, the project aims to lay the groundwork for a larger Horizon Europe proposal.

AI for Everyone: A Free Course to Build Awareness

As part of PINNACLE’s first phase, OUC will roll out a fresh edition of “AI in Everyday Life”, a free, 8-week online course available in Greek and English starting 30 April 2025. The course, designed for all skill levels, explores key AI concepts and real-world applications—no technical background is required.

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Engaging the Public in AI Research

More than just an educational initiative, the course will serve as a collaborative research platform, encouraging participants to actively engage with AI-driven exercises. Their input will help shape the PINNACLE evaluation mechanisms, ensuring AI’s development aligns with public needs. Successful participants will receive a certificate of completion and gain early access to the project’s research findings.

With Cyprus positioning itself at the forefront of AI ethics and public engagement, PINNACLE could set a new standard for how societies interact with and influence artificial intelligence.

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A Shift in Shopping Habits: 76% of Cypriots Embrace Online Shopping

by News Editor

June 2, 2025

In an era heavily leaning towards the digital, Cyprus has marked a pivotal milestone with 76% of its citizens now engaging in online shopping, as revealed in the latest survey by the Office of the Commissioner of Electronic Communications & Postal Regulation (OCECPR).

The study shows not only an increase in the number of online shoppers, but also a rise in the frequency of purchases, from an average of 1.2 times per month in 2022 to 2.0 in 2025.

The survey collected feedback from over 1,500 participants, consisting of both citizens and small businesses, illustrating a nuanced shift in postal usage. Interestingly, while 95% of individuals still prefer Cyprus Post, this figure drops drastically for businesses, with just 28% relying on it, as they increasingly opt for private services.

Postal Patterns and Parcel Preferences

The report highlights a fascinating turnaround in postal habits. The number of letters received and sent has climbed since 2023, countering years of decline. Parcel deliveries have seen a similar uptick, with 71% of businesses reporting higher parcel over letter shipments and anticipating continued growth.

This aligns with global trends where businesses adapt to consumer demands for efficient logistics.

Decision Factors: Beyond Cost

Although citizens deem postal service costs reasonable, they largely base their choices on quality, location, and user experience. Businesses, on the other hand, prioritize quick service, competitive rates, extensive networks, and reliable tracking systems.

As the digital realm continues to evolve, it’s worthwhile considering the broader technological landscape and its implications.