The authorities of Cyprus have approved the opening of branches of foreign universities

The Plenary of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Cyprus has passed a bill regarding the Ministry of Education that regulates the establishment and operation of branches of foreign universities in Cyprus. The document includes strict restrictions.

The bill stipulates that a branch of a foreign university must be a non-profit legal entity, either private or public, and also sets the minimum number of faculties and programs that must be offered.

The revised bill does not include the initial guarantee letter of 2 million euros or the right of the Cyprus Agency for Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education to reject applications based on the university’s ranking abroad.

Additionally, the bill clearly defines that foreign university branches will operate under the same conditions as higher education institutions already functioning on the island.

The Greek Ambassador Ioannis Papamemetiou attended the vote. Two Greek universities, the University of Athens and the National Technical University (Metsovio), have already expressed interest in opening their branches in Cyprus.

It is noted that earlier during discussions in the House of Representatives, the Minister of Education informed the deputies that the creation of foreign university branches in Cyprus is already allowed by law and is covered by EU legislation.

At the same time, the bill approved yesterday includes safeguards for the proper evaluation of branches, the number of faculties and programs, their connection with the parent institution, and the viability of the projects.

According to deputies, the law gives Cyprus the opportunity to position itself as a regional center for education, research, and innovation.