Breaking news

Cyprus Open University Kicks Off AI Project To Shape Public Engagement

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.

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.

Cyprus Starts Selection Process For Board Roles In Semi-Public Organisations

Strategic Transition Ahead Of 2026

The Government of Cyprus has launched a process to appoint new board members across semi-public organisations and advisory councils ahead of term expirations in 2026. The selection is conducted through the Expert Advisory Council mechanism, which is used to evaluate candidates and support appointment decisions.

Robust Application Process

Konstantinos Letympiotis said that 1,241 applications were submitted during the first implementation of the process in 2023. Applications covered board positions across 13 organisations, reflecting interest from professionals in public sector governance roles.

Expanding Opportunities Across Leading Institutions

The current process includes 94 board positions across 12 organisations. Institutions involved include the Public Gas Company (DEFA), THOK, the Licensing Authority, the Urban Planning Council, RIK, HA EK, the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra Foundation, ATHEK, KOA, the Port Authority, the Cyprus Land Development Organisation, and the Construction and Technical Contractors Council. These roles cover sectors such as energy, culture, infrastructure, and public administration.

Clear Timelines And Evaluation Criteria

Applications will open on April 3, 2026, with submissions accepted until April 24, 2026, through an online platform. The Expert Advisory Council will assess candidates based on defined criteria and prepare a shortlist with three candidates per position. That shortlist will be submitted to the Cabinet for final selection. Interviews may also be conducted as part of the evaluation process.

An Invitation To Qualified Professionals

Authorities invited eligible candidates to submit applications for the available positions. The process is aimed at filling upcoming vacancies and maintaining governance structures across public organisations.

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