Politis

‘Given’ Positions at the University of Cyprus? What Was Discussed at the Education Committee

Published February 25, 2026, 14:18
‘Given’ Positions at the University of Cyprus? What Was Discussed at the Education Committee

The Parliamentary Committee on Education continued its discussion of the University of Cyprus budget for 2026, raising questions about the operation of the institution. Committee President Pavlos Mylonas requested clarification on the payment of a special allowance to 22 academics who had appealed to the courts and were vindicated, as well as on the announced staff positions, expressing fears that these were 'given'. Mr. Mylonas also requested a list of professors' contracts and information on the possible creation of an internal auditor position. He expressed concern about the faculty pyramid and the cost of maintaining the university's buildings. Vice-Rector Ioannis Yiapintzakis informed the Committee that the process for hiring an internal auditor has begun and that the cost of maintaining the buildings amounts to €4.5-5 million, but funding is insufficient. It was noted that 16 positions have been announced for the Medical School, but there is difficulty in attracting professors, while a large wave of retirements is expected in the coming years. The Committee also discussed the issue of paying the allowance to the academics, with Mr. Yiapintzakis stating that the University is complying with court decisions.