Breaking news

Regional Tourism Board Leads European Initiative to Preserve Intangible Heritage

Overview Of The European Initiative

The Nicosia Regional Tourism Board has taken a decisive step in preserving Europe’s rich cultural traditions by actively participating in the “Hands Across Generations – Preserving Intangible Heritage through Intergenerational Craft Exchange” project. The initiative, under the auspices of the Erasmus+ VET programme, aims to transfer traditional craft skills from seasoned artisans to vocational education apprentices, ensuring that these valuable techniques are adapted to meet modern digital demands.

Project Kick-Off In Carlow, Ireland

The project’s inaugural meeting was held on October 21–22, 2025, in Carlow, Ireland, hosted by the Carlow Municipal District. As the lead partner, the district set the stage for a collaborative effort focused on safeguarding the continent’s intangible cultural heritage through a structured intergenerational exchange.

Sustainable Craftsmanship And Digital Integration

Over a 24-month duration from September 2025 to August 2027, the project will implement a variety of activities including research, mentoring workshops, digital literacy training, and cultural events. A standout component of the initiative is the creation of the Digital Heritage Toolkit—a multilingual platform that will offer free educational resources to artisans, vocational schools, and local communities. This digital pivot is designed to enhance the sustainability and reach of traditional craft techniques.

Strengthening European Collaboration

The project brings together a consortium of seven partners from across Europe. Alongside the Nicosia Regional Tourism Board, participants include organizations from Greece, Italy, Finland, Spain, and Lithuania. Coordinated by Carlow County Council, this pan-European partnership is committed to fostering intergenerational cooperation, creativity, and social inclusion, thereby reinforcing the cultural fabric of the continent.

Looking Ahead

By nurturing the transmission of traditional craftsmanship within a modern, digital context, the initiative stands as a prime example of how heritage preservation can drive innovative educational and economic outcomes. This project not only preserves historical know-how but also paves the way for a dynamic integration of cultural traditions within today’s digital economy.

Cyprus Property Valuers Advocate Investment Funds For Affordable Housing Initiative

A Strategic Investment for Social Stability

Cyprus’ property valuers association has put forward a compelling proposal for the creation of 500 new affordable housing units. The association recommends that investment funds, including the social insurance fund and other private initiatives, actively participate in the development process. This strategic move is intended to secure the long-term financial stability required for such a vital infrastructure project.

An Innovative Financial Model

Polys Kourousides, President of the association, emphasized that the financial structure should be designed to avoid additional strain on the state budget. “The model should prioritize sustainability and efficiency, especially since the private sector is tasked with the delivery of these housing units,” Kourousides stated. His remarks highlight the importance of blending public interest with private sector expertise to effectively address pressing social challenges.

Addressing a Growing Social Need

Kourousides further described the initiative as a timely response to one of the most urgent social issues of our time. The association has long championed the use of state-owned land for affordable housing projects, underlining its commitment to socially balanced urban development. In addition, the association remains prepared to assist the government by providing essential technical and scientific perspectives to shape a modern, efficient housing framework.

Looking Ahead

This proposal underscores the growing recognition among industry leaders that innovative financial models and public-private collaboration are essential to address housing shortages. With a clear roadmap and the right investment partners, Cyprus may well set a benchmark in sustainable and inclusive urban development.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
Aretilaw firm
eCredo
Uol

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter