Cross sectoral dialogue about SDGs

CUT actively initiates and participates in cross-sectoral dialogue about the SDGs through diverse collaborations involving government bodies, NGOs, and other organisations. For instance, CUT hosted and contributed to significant conferences, such as the Cyprus Talks Green conferences, which brought together policymakers, businesses, and international experts to discuss green transition issues, climate change, and sustainable urban development. These events provided platforms for dialogue on renewable energy, carbon footprint reduction, and the advancement of sustainable practices.

CUT has also been represented in international conferences like the EUMMAS A2S Conference on Global Social and Technological Development and Sustainability. The event fostered collaboration among academia, businesses, and policymakers, emphasising interdisciplinary approaches to address global challenges aligned with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Moreover, CUT collaborates with the Zero Waste Alliance of Europe, exemplified by a meeting between the University’s Office of Environmental Policy, the Serious Products Lab, and the Alliance at Limassol Town Hall. This initiative supported SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through discussions on zero-waste strategies, engaging academia, local government, and international NGOs.

In the healthcare sector, CUT contributes to national committees and advisory roles focusing on public health priorities, such as the promotion of breastfeeding, the reduction of Caesarean sections, and the development of mental health strategies. This reflects the university’s alignment with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), fostering dialogues to address critical national health challenges, promote integrated solutions, and harmonise actions to drive progress efficiently towards achieving sustainable development.

For detailed evidence and a comprehensive list of activities supporting the above statements, please see below.

 

5th Cyprus Talks Green Conference

Organised by the Cyprus University of Technology (CUT) in collaboration with Ideopsis Ltd., this event convened policymakers and industry leaders from Cyprus, the Netherlands, Israel, and Egypt to discuss green transition topics such as renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, and energy storage. This conference provided a platform for addressing the challenges and solutions related to sustainability and technological innovation in the energy sector.

5th Cyprus Talks Green

 

4th Cyprus Talks Green Conference

This conference focused on climate change, sustainable urban development, and carbon footprint reduction. It involved representatives from governmental bodies, businesses, and international organisations. The discussions tackled the challenges and strategies necessary to advance sustainability in Cyprus, emphasising the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration for tackling climate change and promoting sustainable urban development.

4th Cyprus Talks Green

 

Participation in the EUMMAS A2S Conference on Global Social and Technological Development and Sustainability 21/02/2023 – 23/02/2023 in Dubai, UAE.

Dr. Youla Melanthiou, from the Department of Communication and Marketing at CUT, participated in the EUMMAS A2S Conference on Global Social and Technological Development and Sustainability. The conference was organised by the EUMMAS Academic Consortium, which includes nearly 30 universities and business schools from over 20 countries. The event was structured as an EUMMAS Concept Academe2Society (A2S) Conference, representing a unique and innovative approach to fostering collaboration between academia and society. The theme of EUMMAS Dubai 2023 was “Academia, Businesses, and Policymakers in the Emerging New World,” highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation in addressing global challenges and opportunities.

This initiative aligns closely with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It supports SDG 4, Quality Education by fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing between academia and society, creating opportunities for impactful learning and innovation. It also promotes SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening cooperation among educational institutions, businesses, and policymakers on a global scale.

EUMMAS A2S Conference Dubai 2023 and program

 

Zero Waste Meeting with the Zero Waste Alliance of Europe

A meeting between members of the Cyprus University of Technology, including the Office of Environmental Policy and the Serious Products Lab, and the Zero Waste Alliance Cyprus took place at Limassol Town Hall. This meeting exemplified cross-sectoral collaboration focused on zero-waste initiatives and sustainable practices. It directly supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), facilitating dialogue between academia, local government, and international NGOs to promote sustainable consumption and production patterns.

 

Healthcare Sector Participation

CUT is represented in national committees and working groups that contribute to national public health strategies. These include initiatives such as:

These contributions are pivotal in shaping national policies to address health challenges such as low breastfeeding rates and high Caesarean section rates in Cyprus.

 

Policy Advisory Roles in Healthcare

CUT also plays an active role in shaping national healthcare policies through advisory contributions to:

  • Scientific Advisory Committee for Patient Satisfaction/Experience within GeSY (General Healthcare System).
  • National Committee for the National Strategy on Mental Health.

These contributions help improve patient care, satisfaction, and mental health services across Cyprus, ensuring better healthcare outcomes for the population.