REDUCED INEQUALITIES
2024
Scientific Publications related to SDG 10* = 30
* During the period 2020-2024
Citation impact_ SDG10**= 0.93
** Annual average during the period 2020-2024
New Research Programs related to SDG 10*** = 4
*** Launched in 2024.
R&D activities (funded projects)
- Title: Opening careers for males in CARE
- Acronym: OpenCARE
- Funding framework: CERV-2024-GE
- Abstract: The overall aim of OpenCare is to address the gender stereotypes encouraging the involvement of men in formal long-term care (LTC) work and also contribute to increasing the availability of LTC services by responding to the shortage of available staff, which is a pre-condition to support work-life balance for both men and women.
Open Care aims to challenge gender inequalities for men in relation to the access and retention in the long-term care sectors, on the one hand, while also contributing to increasing the availability of LTC services by responding to the shortage of available staff , which is a pre-condition to support work-life balance for both men and women.
- Title: European Social Survey – Round 11
- Acronym: ESS-R11
- Funding framework: Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy
- Abstract: The European Social Survey (ESS) has been conducted since 2002 in more than 30 countries in Europe. It provides a comparative and longitudinal study of behaviors and attitudes on key political and social issues facing European societies. Since 2013, ESS has evolved into a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC). ESS is at the forefront of the application of valid and reliable measurement methods with representative samples. It can be argued that, among large-scale comparative and longitudinal social surveys, ESS is one of the best, if not the best in the world. The questionnaire includes a wide variety of topics such as the use of electronic media and the internet, social trust and trust in institutions, elections, party loyalty, socio-political orientations, evaluation of various elements of democracy, subjective well-being, religiosity, human values, social discrimination, national and ethnic identity, immigration, social exclusion and climate change. The contribution of ESS to science also includes a continuous and thorough study of research methodology. As a public benefit research program, ESS makes its data available in open access on its website (www.europeansocialsurvey.org ), which also includes tools for easy analysis. The value of ESS is also documented by the more than 10 thousand publications that have resulted from the use of its data on a global scale, about 60% of which in scientific journals (bibliography.europeansocialsurvey.org/browse).
- Title: Hybrid Value Chain enhancement in Europe through Citizen Science
- Acronym: VALUEU
- Funding framework: ERASMUS+
- Abstract: The VALUEU project aims to test a model for the current European Innovation ecosystem, namely, with the focus on Social Innovation by bridging two key stakeholders – Higher Education Institutions and Social Innovation actors. It is necessary to bridge these two groups because they both play a vital role in the innovation landscape and, typically, university students/alumni become contributors to the innovations and change in society. VALUEU will contribute to effective involvement in societal processes by the above-mentioned stakeholders. With the help of citizen science both parties (HEIs and SIAs) can learn greatly about the engagement and interactions for creating and sustaining open social innovation. Within the European University of Technology initiative (univ-tech.eu) a framework has been developed in the form of the Citizen Lab for doing citizen science initiatives, and with VALUEU we aim to do a small scale pilot of the proposed methodology. Methodology entitled Hybrid Value Chain (developed by ashoka.org) framework and ADR (action design research) theory are used to formalize problems, discuss them and find artefacts in the shape of societal problems that at the latter stage are being matched with possible solutions. Both sides addressed through this project (HEIs and SI actors) are currently going through systematic changes – Higher Education Institutions are invited to establish pan-European networks (European Universities initiative) and Social Innovation actors are dealing with various global challenges that impact societies and require rapid response. There haven’t been appropriate structures put in place so far for this collaboration between HEIs and SI actors to take place mainly because of three reasons: 1) initiative for HEIs (Higher Education Institutions) and global challenges for SIA (Social Innovation Actors) have started just recently – three years ago; 2) Social Innovation is still struggling with the legal status and recognition within local contexts; 3) Differences in values – scientific and academic interests VS social impacts.
- Title: Toolkit of Care
- Acronym: TOC
- Funding framework: COST
- Abstract: The Action’s network will collaborate to share their collective expertise and technical knowledge employed in creative ways to develop knowledge and methodologies of care.
The main aim is to produce a well formulated and integrated Toolkit of Care and comprising articles, prototypes, audiovisual documentation, technical manuals, theoretical analysis, and data. It will act as a model of how to successfully share knowledge and expertise across different geographical regions and social groups.
- Title: Prediction, Monitoring and Personalized Recommendations for Prevention and Relief of Dementia and Frailty
- Acronym: COMFORTage
- Funding framework: EU HORIZON EUROPE
- Abstract: COMFORTAGE is a joint effort of medical experts (i.e. neurologists, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists, nurses, memory clinics), social scientists and humanists, technical experts (i.e. data scientists, AI experts, robotic experts) and Digital Innovation Hubs to establish a pan European framework for Community-based, Integrated and People-Centric prevention, monitoring and progression managing solutions for age-related diseases and disabilities. The project’s framework will be empowered by a unique combination and integration of: (i) Medical/clinical innovations (e.g. novel approaches to risk factor analysis and personalized prediction, AI-based medical devices, integrated data sources of age-related clinical evidence, and evidence-based Healthcare Technology Assessment (HTA)), (ii) Cutting edge AI innovations (e.g. explainable AI (XAI), secure AI, serious games, Patient Digital Twins, Virtual Assistive technologies) for trusted, accurate, secure and personalized clinical decision making, (iii) Digital Innovation Hubs (e.g. Smart Homes, robotics and Living Labs) to facilitate and promote research activities in the health and wellbeing domain, and (iv) social innovations for promoting innovative views and co-creating new or improved solutions for assistance and improvement of social integration and interaction. COMFORTAGE will facilitate the integration, harmonization, and management of a host of different data sources, including biobanks, cohorts, medical records, longitudinal observational studies, real-world data about patients, as well of alternative secondary data sources, such as sensors, wearables and mobiles in a standardized structure called Holistic Health Records (HHRs). COMFORTAGE will become a catalyst to help prevent, monitor, and manage progression of age-related diseases and disabilities, especially of dementia and frailty, based on high-end research and analysis of the utilization of the aforementioned technologies.
- Title: European Union’s REKonstructed content in 3D to produce XR experiences
- Acronym: EUreka3D-XR
- Funding framework: EU HORIZON EUROPE
- Abstract: EUreka3D-XR is the continuation project of EUreka3D, funded by the Digital Europe Programme of the European Union, to develop innovative re-use scenarios and tools that enable the creation of extended reality (XR) applications, through expanding the features and services already developed and tested in the EUreka3D project.
The main research area of the new action in EUreka3D-XR is focused on transforming cultural contents such 2D, 3D, video, texts, maps, stories into compelling narratives and extended reality scenarios. The project aims to deliver said scenarios to the common European data space for cultural heritage, to enrich the corpus of open access digital cultural contents online and to inspire others in experimenting new technologies.
Strategic Actions / Operations
Development and implementation of the Code of Practice for Addressing Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Harassment
A significant achievement of the University is the development and implementation of its own Code of Practice for Addressing Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Harassment (https://www.cut.ac.cy/digitalAssets/444/444590_100code_eng.pdf). The Code aligns the University’s operations with the Equal Treatment of Men and Women in Employment and Vocational Training Law of 2002 and aims to prevent and address unacceptable behaviors. Its goal is to foster a work and social environment in which the dignity of the individual is fully protected and respected by all members of the University community.
Non-discriminatory admissions policy
CUT upholds a non-discriminatory admissions policy, ensuring that all applicants are treated with fairness, dignity, and equality, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, or socio-economic background.
This institutional commitment is formally embedded in the Equality Plan 2022-2024, which defines the University’s strategic objectives and actions to ensure equal opportunities, inclusion, and non-discrimination across all areas of university life. The Plan emphasizes that fairness, diversity, and equity are integral to CUT’s academic and institutional policies, fostering a welcoming and inclusive community for all members of the University. The Equality Plan is complemented by the Policy Statement on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, endorsed by the Rectorate, which articulates CUT’s principles of fairness, respect, and equal treatment for all members of its community. Together, these frameworks establish the foundation for equitable and inclusive access to higher education at CUT.
Admission and tracking of applications of underrepresented groups
CUT systematically monitors applications, admissions, and enrolments of students from underrepresented and vulnerable groups to ensure equitable access and participation across all levels of study. This monitoring framework is guided by the Equality Plan 2022–2024, which defines institutional mechanisms for collecting, analysing, and reporting equality data across all faculties and administrative services.
Student application and admission data across all study levels (undergraduate and postgraduate) are monitored through the Student Information System (SIS), which records information on applicants’ gender, nationality, disability status, age, and socioeconomic background. This data, managed by the Studies and Student Affairs Service, can be accessed through standard or upon-request reports, ensuring systematic monitoring, transparency, and evidence-based decision-making across the University.
Special attention is given to candidates applying under the Special Categories Admissions Scheme, which reserves up to 14% of total Cypriot admissions per programme for applicants from disadvantaged or minority backgrounds. These categories include candidates from families facing financial hardship, orphans, individuals with serious health or learning difficulties, and members of recognised religious minorities. All applications are evaluated transparently and objectively based on verified socioeconomic or medical documentation, in accordance with the national regulations governing special category admissions at public universities in Cyprus.
Access to university underrepresented groups recruit
CUT takes proactive and systematic measures to recruit, support, and retain students and staff from underrepresented and vulnerable groups. These actions form part of CUT’s institutional commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, as outlined in its Equality Plan 2022-2024 and Policy Statement on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, ensuring that fairness and accessibility are embedded in all recruitment and participation processes.
To further enhance access and encourage the recruitment of students from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds, the Student Welfare Association implements targeted scholarship and financial aid schemes based on transparent socioeconomic criteria.
In the 2023-24 academic year, 260 undergraduate students benefited from these measures, which directly support participation and retention of students facing financial hardship and promote a more inclusive student population.
In parallel, CUT promotes international undergraduate recruitment through its collaboration with the Archdiocese of Kenya, offering full scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda for undergraduate degrees in Nursing and other academic fields. These scholarships include a preparatory Greek language year, supporting linguistic, academic, and social integration into the University community.
Further, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Kenya, CUT offers full scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda for bachelor’s degrees in nursing and other fields. The scholarship includes a preparatory year focused on learning Greek. Additionally, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, CUT provides scholarships for postgraduate studies to students from Gambia, Guyana, Libya, and Palestine.
As far as the staff recruitment is concerned CUT upholds a comprehensive Equal Opportunity Policy across all academic and administrative recruitment processes, ensuring fairness, inclusivity, and non- discrimination at every career stage.
Anti-discrimination policy
CUT has established a robust institutional framework to prevent discrimination and promote equality, diversity, and inclusion across all operations. The framework is anchored in the Equality Plan 2022-2024, which ensures equal opportunities regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation. Supporting policies include the Code of Practice to Prevent and Combat Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Harassment, the Equal Access Plan for Persons with Disabilities and Special Educational Needs, and the Inclusive Language Guide. The Student Ombud provides independent oversight, safeguarding students’ rights and ensuring fair treatment. Together, these measures create a safe, accessible, and respectful university environment grounded in fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity.
University diversity officer
CUT promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion through dedicated institutional structures- the Diversity and Inclusion Office and the Equality Committee- both formally mandated by the Rectorate. The Diversity Office, coordinated by trained diversity officers, develops and implements policies, programmes, and awareness-raising initiatives related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and human rights. Working closely with the Equality Committee, it delivers training sessions, workshops, and institutional tools such as the Inclusive Language Guide, ensuring that inclusivity is embedded across governance, teaching, and workplace practices.
Together, these bodies advise university leadership, monitor implementation, and cultivate a respectful and empowering environment for all members of the CUT community.
Support for underrepresented groups
CUT provides comprehensive support services for underrepresented groups, ensuring equitable access and inclusion for all students. Through the Center for Student Development, the University offers mentoring, counselling, and tailored academic assistance for students from low-income backgrounds, students with disabilities, and international students. Financial aid is delivered via the Student Welfare Office and Student Welfare Association, including scholarships, tuition-fee exemptions, housing subsidies, free daily meals, and on-campus employment.
These initiatives are complemented by learning support, mental-health counselling, and a Greek language programme for international students. Through these integrated measures, CUT actively promotes equal access, student well-being, and the reduction of inequalities in higher education.
Accessible facilities
CUT is committed to maintaining a fully accessible and inclusive campus for students, staff, and visitors with disabilities. Accessibility measures across university buildings include ramps, elevators, Braille signage, and clearly marked accessible routes to ensure safe and independent mobility. Recognising the challenges of its dispersed urban infrastructure, CUT continuously upgrades its facilities to remove physical barriers and enhance usability.
The University also provides a campus accessibility map, currently being updated with interactive features and detailed accessibility information for each building. Through these sustained efforts, CUT promotes full participation and equal access to education, research, and community life for all members of its university community.
Disability support services
CUT provides comprehensive disability support services to ensure full and equitable access to education for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses. The Center for Student Development coordinates personalised accommodations such as mobility assistance, special equipment, adapted examination arrangements, extended deadlines, and individual tutoring. Support covers visual, hearing, mobility, psychological, and learning difficulties, ensuring tailored responses to each student’s needs.
In 2023–2024, assistance was provided to 147 students across various disability categories. Complementing these services, the Diversity and Inclusion Office promotes accessibility across infrastructure, digital platforms, and university policies, ensuring barrier-free participation. Through this coordinated framework, CUT demonstrates a strong commitment to disability inclusion, accessibility, and equal participation in academic life.
Disability access scheme
CUT implements a comprehensive disability access scheme to ensure full and equal participation of students and staff with disabilities in academic and social life. Guided by the Equal Access Plan for Persons with Disabilities and Persons with Special Educational Needs, CUT promotes accessibility, inclusion, and a culture of respect and belonging.
The Center for Student Development provides structured mentoring and peer-support programmes for students with disabilities or chronic conditions, offering guidance, empowerment, and personalised assistance. Targeted academic access schemes include individual tutoring, flexible learning accommodations, and collaboration with faculty to meet specific accessibility needs. Complementing these measures, the Diversity and Inclusion Office leads awareness and accessibility initiatives, removing barriers and strengthening inclusive participation across the university community.
Disability accommodation policy
CUT implements a comprehensive disability accommodation policy ensuring equal access and reasonable adjustments for students and staff with disabilities. Guided by the Equal Access Plan for Persons with Disabilities and Persons with Special Educational Needs, CUT guarantees inclusive education, support services, and accessible infrastructure across campuses in Limassol and Paphos. Facilities include ramps, elevators with Braille signage, accessible classrooms, and adapted housing.
The University provides subsidised accommodation covering up to 50% of costs for eligible students with disabilities, based on transparent socioeconomic criteria. The Center for Student Development coordinates personalised academic accommodations- assistive technologies, exam and lecture adaptations, tutoring, and mobility assistance- ensuring equitable participation. Oversight by the Diversity and Inclusion Office secures policy implementation and continuous improvement in accessibility and inclusion.
Outreach
Scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda
The University, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Kenya, provides seven (7) full scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda pursuing undergraduate degrees in Nursing and other programs at CUT.The Archdiocese oversees the selection process, and the scholarship includes a preparatory year dedicated to learning the Greek language (https://www.cut.ac.cy/digitalAssets/517/517200_100file.pdf pg. 38 ; https://www.cut.ac.cy/students/student-welfare-and-support/scholarships/international-students/)
2023
Scientific Publications related to SDG 10* = 24
*During the period 2019-2023
Citation impact_ SDG10*= 1.11
*Annual average during the period 2019-2023
R&D activities (funded projects)
- Title: Preventing thE PReventable – Familial HypErCholesterolaemia paediaTric screening for cardiOvascular health
- Acronym: PERFECTO
- Funding framework: EU4HEALTH
- Αbstract: The PERFECTO project (“Preventing the Preventable – Familial Hypercholesterolemia Pediatric Screening for Cardiovascular Health”) is a pioneering initiative in personalized prevention, targeting the genetic roots of cardiovascular disease through social innovation. The project aims to establish a scientific basis for pediatric screening of Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) across Europe, positively impacting affected individuals, families, and healthcare systems strained post-pandemic. Led by a diverse consortium—FH Europe Foundation (coordinator), EuroScan (Germany), Cyprus University of Technology, InnoMed (Romania), and EPHA (Belgium)—the project combines expertise in healthcare, social sciences, and participatory research. Collaborating with FH Europe (https://fheurope.org/), it aligns with SDGs 3, 10, and 16.
- Title: Project for the Enhancement of the School Medical Service
- Acronym: School4Health
- Abstract: School Health Services (SHS) play a vital role in enhancing children’s health, but developing effective, evidence-based services that meet local needs poses challenges. In Cyprus, the Ministry of Health has collaborated with academia and various stakeholders to redesign SHS using a participatory action research approach. This process involved key departments from the Ministries of Health and Education, the State Health Services Organization, and organized parent associations. By identifying critical needs for SHS—such as improved organizational models and targeted interventions for obesity and mental health—this initiative fosters ongoing staff development and family engagement. It exemplifies how participatory research can create SHS that align with international standards and contribute to achieving SDGs 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10.
- Title: Toolkit of Care
- Acronym: TOC
- Funding framework: COST
- Abstract: The Covid-19 pandemic has intensified existing inequalities, severely affecting the precarious cultural sector, particularly in Inclusiveness Target and Near Neighbour countries with minimal government support for creative practitioners and NGOs. This crisis not only disrupts local cultural production but also restricts global access to their innovations. In response, an interdisciplinary group of creative practitioners, academics, researchers, and arts organizations, including CYENS (https://cyens.org.cy/), has formed a “critical network of care.” Their goal is to share expertise and develop care methodologies, resulting in a comprehensive TOOLKIT OF CARE that includes articles, prototypes, audiovisual documentation, technical manuals, and theoretical analyses. This toolkit will provide a model for effectively sharing knowledge across diverse regions and social groups, aligning with SDGs 5, 8, 10, 11, and 17.
- Title: European Union’s REKonstructed content in 3D
- Acronym: EUreka3D
- Funding framework: DIGITAL
- Abstract: This program collaborates with UNESCO and Professor Ioannides hold the UNESCO Chair on Digital Cultural Heritage at the Cyprus University of Technology. UNESCO’s mission is to contribute to the building of a culture of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information. Moreover, it takes into account and contributes to the gender equality, Climate action and life below water.
- Title: Co-curating in the Phygital Museum and the creation of alternative narratives and transcultural “voices” towards developing inclusive and sustainable museums
- Acronym: Erasmus+ ExhiBIT
- Funding framework: ERASMUS+
- Abstract: The Erasmus+ Project Co-curating in the Phygital Museum emphasizes co-curatorship through “phygital” strategies, blending physical and digital experiences to foster broader visitor engagement in multicultural, post-pandemic museum spaces. Aligning with the EU’s Digital Education Action Plan (2021–2027), the ExhiBIT project supports Creative and Cultural Industries (CCI) professionals in enhancing digital skills and pedagogical approaches to promote social inclusivity. By advancing co-curatorship practices, it facilitates dialogue with underrepresented societal groups to collaboratively shape inclusive and participatory museum environments.
Strategic Actions
Scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda
The University, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Kenya, provides seven (7) full scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda pursuing undergraduate degrees in Nursing and other programs at CUT.The Archdiocese oversees the selection process, and the scholarship includes a preparatory year dedicated to learning the Greek language (https://www.cut.ac.cy/digitalAssets/517/517200_100file.pdf pg. 38 ; https://www.cut.ac.cy/students/student-welfare-and-support/scholarships/international-students/)
Development and implementation of the Code of Practice for Addressing Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Harassment
A significant achievement of the University is the development and implementation of its own Code of Practice for Addressing Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Harassment (https://www.cut.ac.cy/digitalAssets/444/444590_100code_eng.pdf). The Code aligns the University’s operations with the Equal Treatment of Men and Women in Employment and Vocational Training Law of 2002 and aims to prevent and address unacceptable behaviors. Its goal is to foster a work and social environment in which the dignity of the individual is fully protected and respected by all members of the University community.
Non-discriminatory admissions policy
CUT is committed to fostering fairness, diversity, and equity, creating an inclusive community as outlined in its Equality Plan and Policy Statement on Equality. Admissions are free from discrimination based on race, religion, gender, age, disability, nationality, sexuality, or socio-economic status. Undergraduate admissions are based on nationwide exam rankings, while postgraduate admissions on merit and academic qualifications.
To ensure equal access for underrepresented and vulnerable groups, CUT implements positive discrimination policies, allocating up to 14% of Cypriot admissions for “special categories”, including candidates from families facing special circumstances (e.g. public financial assistance, orphanhood, severe family health issues), those with serious health conditions, psychiatric or learning difficulties and individuals from religious minorities, over 30, or parents of minors. Scholarships based on socio-economic criteria are also offered for Master’s and PhD students.
Access to university track underrepresented groups applications
CUT’s policies ensure equal access to programs for individuals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. Special consideration for undergraduate admissions is given to candidates from families with special circumstances (e.g., public financial assistance, orphanhood, severe family health issues), individuals with serious health conditions (e.g., disabilities), psychiatric or learning difficulties, and those from religious minorities, over 30, or parents of minors. Also, Master’s and PhD candidates facing social, health, and economic challenges are considered for social support scholarships. Additionally, the Center for Student Development at CUT ensures students with disabilities receive comprehensive academic support.
All student application data, including those from underrepresented groups, are available and accessible through the Student Information System platform which is administered by the Studies and Student Affairs department. Statistics and metrics from those data can be extracted by readymade or upon-request reports.
Access to university underrepresented groups recruit
CUT demonstrates its dedication to promoting diversity and inclusivity in student and staff recruitment processes. Annually, it grants social support scholarships for Master’s and PhD students, in the form of tuition fees, based on socio-economic criteria. These are funded through postgraduate tuition revenues and other income beyond the state grant. During the academic year 2022-23, CUT provided support to 24 Master’s and PhD students through these scholarships, distributed across various departments. Underrepresented students and especially those with low income have the opportunity to work part-time at the university.
Further, in partnership with the Archdiocese of Kenya, CUT offers full scholarships to students from Kenya and Uganda for bachelor’s degrees in nursing and other fields. The scholarship includes a preparatory year focused on learning Greek. Additionally, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, CUT provides scholarships for postgraduate studies to students from Gambia, Guyana, Libya, and Palestine.
As far as the staff recruitment is concerned there is no positive (or negative) discrimination since the CUT applies an equal access/opportunities policy.
Anti-discrimination policy
CUT has developed comprehensive frameworks to promote inclusivity and equity across all areas of its operations. These include an Equality Plan, which aims to ensure equal opportunities for all members of the university community, and an Equal Accessibility Plan for persons with disabilities, which addresses the need for accessible working and learning environment and services for staff and students with disabilities and special educational needs. The University also enforces a Code of Practice to Prevent and Combat Bullying, Sexual Harassment, and Harassment, fostering a safe, respectful, and supportive work environment. To support students further, CUT has established the role of Student Ombuds to provide impartial assistance, address concerns and deal with cases of power abuse or harassment against students, ensuring fairness throughout the university experience.
University diversity officer
CUT, with the goal of achieving workplace equality, has established the Equality Committee. As an advisory body to the Rector, the Committee aims to enhance the University’s performance in diversity, inclusion and equality by focusing on three pillars: policy making, consulting and support, and information and awareness. The Diversity and Inclusion Office, reporting to the Rector, aims to empower the university community through initiatives that promote understanding and respect, and integrate diversity into the university culture, supporting individual differences and ensuring equal opportunities for all. In collaboration with the Equality Committee, the Office proposes and implements policies, action plans and tools for equality, diversity, and inclusion, such as an inclusive language guide, and organises public events and internal trainings to raise awareness on these issues.
Support for underrepresented groups
CUT is dedicated to supporting the well-being of its community, with a focus on underrepresented groups. To assist students facing socioeconomic challenges, such as low-income families, disabilities, or health issues, the University provides support based on socioeconomic criteria, including:
- Financial aid (cash and/or food vouchers) through the Student Welfare Association.
- Free daily lunches in partnership with the Bishopric of Limassol.
- Housing support, including allowances or subsidised accommodation at 50% of the actual cost.
- Scholarships and financial aid from the Student Welfare Association
- Tuition fee exemptions for Master’s and PhD students
- Employment opportunities at the University.
CUT also enhances access to education and personal growth with services like a preparatory Greek language year for international students and services from the Center of Student Development, offering counselling, disability assistance, dyslexia support, group tutoring, and more.
Accessible facilities
CUT is committed to accessibility for all students, staff, and visitors, despite its urban location within the city centre and dispersed facilities across various buildings. To meet diverse needs of its community, CUT has installed ramps and elevators throughout its buildings, ensuring mobility for individuals with physical disabilities. Moreover, the use of braille language further supports blind or visually impaired individuals. Through these measures, CUT demonstrates its dedication to providing an inclusive and accessible environment for all members of its community, regardless of their physical abilities or disabilities.
Disability support services
Through the Center of Student Development, CUT offers support services for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses, ensuring their rights as equal members of the student community and improving their quality of life during their studies. The support provided to each student is personalised, addressing their individual needs and considering the severity and specific circumstances of their situation.
Services include traffic attendants, text enlargement/translation, transcription for exams, special equipment, and practical lecture or exam accommodations. Individual tutoring is also offered in study rooms, which is conducted by qualified staff or advanced-year students. Additional measures are implemented based on specific needs.
In 2023, support was provided to 127 students with blindness or severe vision problems, deafness or severe hearing difficulties, wheelchair bound or movement problems, serious psychiatric or psychological issues, and other significant health problems.
Disability access scheme
CUT is committed to ensuring access for individuals with disabilities through its action plan, which promotes equality, diversity, and an inclusive working and learning environment. The plan focuses on fostering respect and belonging by:
- Building an inclusive organizational culture.
- Providing accessible and flexible education with equal support.
- Ensuring safe physical and digital infrastructures.
- Attracting and retaining staff with disabilities.
The Center of Student Development offers targeted support, including mentoring, counselling, and psychotherapeutic services through individual appointments. CUT also provides traffic attendants, text enlargement, translation, transcription for exams, special equipment, and practical accommodations for lectures and exams (e.g., extensions, overlooking spelling errors, or dedicated spaces). Additional support includes individual tutoring reinforcement courses, and other measures to meet diverse and specific needs.
Disability accommodation policy
CUT prioritises support services for students with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and accessible learning environment. The University offers tailored accommodations to help students succeed academically, socially, and personally. Facilities in Limassol and Paphos are accessible, with ramps, elevators featuring raised numerals and braille signage, adaptable classrooms, accessible restrooms, and dedicated parking space. Additionally, several residence halls (including the one in Paphos and the planned in Limassol at the area of Veregaria) offer adapted accommodations for students with physical disabilities. CUT also provides subsidised housing at approximately 50% of the cost, ensuring affordability. Moreover, the Center for Student Development supports students with disabilities, offering services such as traffic attendants, text enlargement, exam transcription, special equipment, exam accommodations, and individual tutoring.