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University of Cyprus establishes first chair in AI

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

The University of Cyprus (UCY) and XM Group signed an agreement on Wednesday to establish the first chair in Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the University’s Department of Computer Science. The agreement was signed at the UCY campus, in Nicosia.

The University notes in a press release that XM Group undertakes the funding of the Chair for 10 consecutive years, to promote research and education and the exploitation of research results in the field of AI. ‘The funding of more than one million euros entails the creation of the Chair and its establishment through the appointment of a Professor,’ the press release adds.

In his address, Rector, Professor Tasos Christofides, stated that through the XM Chair, the University seeks to leverage the potential of AI, providing the next generation with the necessary skills and knowledge, shaping the new educational and research process both in and beyond the university.

Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs, Professor Eleni-Tatiana Synodinou, presented the objectives, the actions and the prospects through the establishment of the XM Chair.  She also pointed out that the Chair’s activities are expected to add significant value to both partners and generate joint investments for the future of the country and the new generation.

On his part, Chairman of the Council of the University of Cyprus, Tasos Anastasiou in his address indicated that the fact that XM chose the University of Cyprus to establish a Chair in the field of Artificial Intelligence ‘’is a significant vote of confidence’’, adding that ‘’it fills us with pride and creates the right conditions to showcase our potential in cutting-edge technologies.’’

Vice-President and Associate Professor of the Department of Computer Science of the University of Cyprus, Vasos Vasiliou, pointed out that the chair of Artificial Intelligence is the first chair of its kind in the Department, adding that this “is a milestone which marks the further development in our own course.”

Professor of the University’s Department of Computer Science, Elpida Keravnou-Papailiou, pointed out that the signing of the agreement is an excellent development. She went on to say that the Department is looking forward to expanding its cooperation with XM Group, noting that “there are many issues on which we can cooperate.”

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Theodoros Gotsis, expressed the wish of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to be in contact with the newly established chair of AI so that the Ministry can respond to its tasks with more expertise.

Dr Stavri Morti, co-CEO of the XM Group, noted that “the establishment of the XM Chair in Artificial Intelligence aligns perfectly with our vision of leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive progress and create value.’’ She also expressed her belief that ‘’the research and educational activities stemming from this Chair will not only enrich the academic community but also have a far-reaching impact on society and the economy.’’

EU Farm Output Prices Decline For The First Time In Nine Months

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

EU Market Adjustments Signal New Price Trends

Agricultural output prices across the European Union declined in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking a shift after several quarters of increases. Data from Eurostat shows that farm gate prices fell by 1.9% compared with the same period in 2024.

Crisis of Declining Prices In Select Markets

Cyprus recorded one of the more notable decreases in agricultural input costs among EU member states, with prices falling by 2.6% compared with Q4 2024. The reduction eased cost pressures for the local agricultural sector following periods of higher prices earlier in 2025. Across the EU, prices for goods and services consumed in agriculture remained relatively stable. Non-investment inputs such as energy, fertilisers and feedingstuffs showed limited overall changes during the quarter.

Country-Specific Divergence In Price Movements

Eurostat data highlights considerable variation across member states. Fifteen EU countries recorded declines in agricultural output prices. Belgium registered the largest decrease at 12.9%, followed by Lithuania (8.2%) and Germany (6.0%). At the same time, twelve countries reported increases in output prices. Ireland recorded the strongest rise at 6.8%, followed by Slovenia (5.6%) and Malta (4.2%).

Stability In Agricultural Inputs Amid Commodity Shifts

Agricultural input prices also showed mixed developments. Eleven member states recorded declines, including Cyprus (2.6%), Belgium (2.1%) and Sweden (2.0%). Other countries experienced moderate increases, including Lithuania (4.2%), Ireland (3.3%) and Romania (2.5%). Among major agricultural commodities, milk prices declined by 4.1% while cereal prices fell by 8.9% across the EU. In contrast, fertilisers and soil improvers increased by 7.9%, reflecting continued volatility in input markets.

Outlook For EU Agriculture

The latest Eurostat data points to uneven price developments across the EU agricultural sector. While input prices remained broadly stable in many markets, movements in output prices varied significantly between member states. These trends highlight the need for farmers and policymakers to adapt to shifting commodity prices and changing cost structures across the European agricultural market.

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