Cyprus records one of the lowest rates of female participation in STEM professions in Europe, according to the President of the Cyprus Information Technology Enterprises Association (CITEA), George Malekkos.
Speaking at the Teachers for STEM conference organised by the Cyprus Computer Society (CCS), Malekkos stressed the need for modernising ICT education and strengthening women’s participation in STEM professions.
Participation of women in STEM fields
George Malekkos said Cyprus ranks among the lowest countries in Europe in terms of women working in STEM professions.
“We cannot speak about innovation when we leave half of the country’s talent outside,” he said.
He also noted that women already hold key positions of responsibility in the technology sector and within CITEA, not because of quotas but due to proven excellence.
Impact on the Cypriot economy
Malekkos stated that the issue of ICT education goes beyond the school curriculum and is directly linked to the competitiveness of the Cypriot economy.
He said Cyprus records one of the lowest rates of female participation in STEM professions in Europe.
Education system and teaching methods
Referring to the education system, Malekkos said ICT cannot continue to be taught through models developed in previous decades in an era defined by artificial intelligence, data and automation.
He added that teachers are a critical driver of change, as they not only transmit knowledge but also shape confidence, ambition and modern thinking among students.
Concluding his remarks, Malekkos reaffirmed CITEA’s commitment to working closely with all relevant stakeholders so that the discussion can be translated into concrete actions.
