President of the Republic, Nikos Christodoulides, on Monday called on the parliament to approve the bill on university clinics by the end of the year, stressing that the reform is essential if Cyprus is to become a regional hub for education, research and innovation in the healthcare sector.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new facilities of the ‘Nikos K. Shiacolas’ School of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Cyprus, the President said the country could not achieve its strategic ambitions in healthcare without the establishment of a legal framework for university clinics.
‘There is absolutely no excuse,’ Christodoulides said, noting that the issue had been under discussion for many years, that the government had already approved the legislation, and that the bill is currently before the parliament. He called on all stakeholders to work together to ensure its approval before the end of 2026.
The President described the new medical school facilities as far more than ‘just another building project,’ calling them an investment in knowledge, scientific excellence, research and, above all, people.
He noted that the project began in 2022 thanks to a pound 9 million donation from the Nikos and Elpida Shiacolas Foundation, combined with funding provided by the Republic of Cyprus through loans from the European Investment Bank and the Council of Europe Development Bank.
He also said that healthcare and education remain the sectors receiving the largest share of government investment, describing them as investments in the country’s future and younger generations.
According to the President, the new facilities strengthen the vision of a more outward-looking, competitive and innovative Cyprus that attracts talent, scientists and investment while establishing itself as a regional center for knowledge, research and technological advancement.
The President noted that the School of Medicine currently admits 35 students annually, while applications exceed 600 each year, reflecting the quality and reputation of its academic programs.
He also revealed that more than pound 16 million has been allocated in the 2026 state budget for the development of university infrastructure.
In addition, the government is promoting the establishment of Centers of Excellence and specialized research units, the introduction of study programs in international languages, the development of inter-university programs, the strengthening of innovation and participation in European university networks, he said.
University of Cyprus Council Chairman, Tasos Anastasiou, described the new facility as ‘a true jewel’ that will further strengthen the School of Medicine. He added that resolving the issue of university clinics remains the final key step in providing the school with another essential tool for its development.
University of Cyprus Rector, Professor Tasos Christofides, said the occasion marked not merely the opening of a new building but the creation of a space where future doctors will be educated, research ideas will emerge and collaboration and service to society will flourish.
The new building has a total area of 8,825 square meters, extends across five levels and has received LEED Platinum certification, the highest international distinction for sustainable building development, Christofides said.
He also announced that one of the first undergraduate programs the University of Cyprus plans to offer in English will be a medical degree program, with preparations expected to be completed by September 2027.
Speaking on behalf of the Nikos and Elpida Shiacolas Foundation, Marina N. Shiacolas said her parents viewed education and healthcare as the most valuable pillars for a country’s progress.