Dialogos

AI Skills Essential Across All Industries in Cyprus

Published January 25, 2026, 08:00
AI Skills Essential Across All Industries in Cyprus

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a necessity in all sectors of the Cypriot economy, according to Dimitris Panteli, head of the IT Services Unit of the HRDA. The focus is on leveraging AI tools and capabilities to increase efficiency and productivity, however, the discussion on the ethical dimension of AI is still in its early stages. The HRDA is recording growing interest in digital transformation and AI in training programs, insisting on the integration of the ethical dimension. Employers in Cyprus view AI as either a tool for development and upgrading, especially in the technology and financial services sectors, or as a means of reducing labor costs. The World Economic Forum's 'Future of Jobs 2025' report shows that the adoption of AI varies by sector, with IT being more advanced than construction. The HRDA promotes programs that support the qualitative upgrading of work and skills through AI. The sectors that demand more AI training are Technology and IT, Education, Finance, Consulting Services, Advertising, Legal and Accounting Services. Training programs cover both technical skills (use of tools, data analysis, automation) and business and strategic issues. The lack of AI training, especially for SMEs, carries the risk of loss of competitiveness and increased job insecurity. In conclusion, AI is critical to the Cypriot economy, but a holistic approach is needed that includes both technical training and the ethical dimension, in order to ensure sustainable development and social justice.