The University of Cyprus has called on the Ministry of Finance to grant approval for the construction of four new Schools, raising once again the issue of infrastructure during the discussion of its 2026 budget at the House Education Committee.
According to university officials, the Schools of Humanities, Social Sciences, Human Sciences and Graduate Studies remain without permanent premises. Their needs are currently being met through rented facilities scattered across different locations.
Infrastructure projects under way
Vice-Rector Ioannis Giapintzakis briefed committee members on the progress of key development projects.
He said construction works on the Medical School building are due to be completed on 28 February, with the university set to formally take delivery of the project and schedule its official opening for 24 March.
Works on the Biological Sciences building are also nearing completion, while the Teaching Facilities 3 (XOD3) project has already been finalised, with its inauguration expected in May or June.
Second phase of student residences
Reference was also made to the second phase of student dormitories. According to Giapintzakis, the project’s feasibility study has been completed, but the Ministry of Finance has requested an additional analysis comparing two construction methods: an architectural competition and the design and build approach.
The additional analysis has been assigned to the same firm that prepared the original feasibility study, at an extra cost of €15,000, and is expected to be finalised in March.
Balancing growth and fiscal oversight
The University of Cyprus’ 2026 budget stands at €226 million and reflects the institution’s operational requirements, payroll expenses and development works under existing fiscal constraints.
The discussion at the Education Committee once again highlighted the ongoing need to balance university expansion with state oversight and budgetary control.