The Kapodistrian University of Athens has 320,000 graduates from Cyprus, including notable leaders. A branch in Cyprus is set to launch in 2025 offering 4 Schools and 8 Departments. Admissions will be based on high school diplomas and interviews, with tuition fees ranging from €6,000 to €20,000 per year. 87% of Cypriots support the establishment of the branch. There is strong academic connection and backing for the new institution.
Giannis Giannakis, a former Commissioner of Volunteerism, has a three-year prison sentence but may apply for early release by the end of 2026. He will not face any financial consequences regarding his salary from ONEK due to his illegal hiring. The Legal Service has not charged him concerning his salary. Currently, there is no process to recover his wages. It is uncertain whether a disciplinary procedure against him will be completed before he turns 63.
The spread of the resistant fungus Candida auris in Europe raises concerns, with cases reported in countries like Cyprus and Greece. This fungus, first identified in the EU in 2014, is resistant to antifungal medications and can cause serious infections. Between 2013 and 2023, over 4,000 cases were reported in the EU, with a significant increase in 2023. Only 17 out of 36 countries have a national surveillance system for the fungus. The report emphasizes the need for immediate action and the implementation of preventive measures.
An official from the Ministry of Education is facing criminal charges for sexual harassment and indecent assault. There have been two complaints against him, one regarding an indecent assault that occurred 22 years ago. Despite the Ministry's investigation finding no evidence of wrongdoing in the past, a recent complaint prompted a decision to pursue criminal charges. The case is now going to court, and the Minister is being updated on developments. Appropriate measures may be taken regarding the official's position.
Dimitris Syllouris declared himself innocent during the trial concerning naturalizations. Christakis Giovanis stated that he does not believe he acted illegally regarding documents he signed. Both assert they had no bad intentions or actions related to the case. Testimonies about Mr. Syllouris's travel abroad were presented. The process continues with witness statements from other involved parties.
Larnaca Airport experienced chaos due to a general strike affecting flight schedules. Many passengers expressed concern about possibly missing their flights. There were long lines at both the check-in areas and luggage checks. Hermes Airports reported that 20 flights were rescheduled, but the situation has now normalized. Passengers noted that some congestion was expected given the number of flights that were moved.
The development of the 'Hyperion Limassol' project at the old Limassol port is officially terminated as the Marine Spatial Planning Committee did not issue a Compatibility Certificate. This decision reverses plans to build a Ferris wheel in the area. Cyprus's spatial and environmental policies prevailed over business plans. The Department of Environment is returning the Environmental Impact Assessment, deeming the project's location invalid. The Cypriot Ports Authority is requested to process the refund of the paid fee.
Two women, aged 44 and 53, are accused of defrauding refugees out of over €150,000 by promising quick sales of properties in the occupied areas. The 44-year-old presented herself as a lawyer, requesting money for appraisals and administrative fees, claiming fast compensation. The allegations include deceiving victims for supposed property sales involving alleged investors. The women appeared in court, where their temporary detention was ordered. The investigation continues regarding the legitimacy of the 44-year-old's claims.
Drugs were found in a prisoner's cell at the Central Prison following a search by prison authorities. The guards discovered an A4 sheet soaked in a narcotic substance and small quantities of crystalline methamphetamine. The prisoner will face legal consequences, and the Drug Enforcement Agency is handling the case. The prison administration is investigating how the drugs were smuggled into the facility. The method of using these drugs is concerning, as they are designed in small pieces.
The ECB announced that Maria Callas will be featured on the new €5 banknote. The new series is related to European culture and will also include iconic figures like Ludwig van Beethoven and Marie Curie. There are two proposed themes: one for culture and another for nature. The renewal of banknotes aims to enhance security and accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities. Final design selections will be made in 2026.
Today was marked by a nationwide strike affecting schools and hospitals. Many students did not attend school due to teacher participation in the strike and lack of transportation. In remote areas, absenteeism reached 75%. Despite the inconvenience, no major issues were reported, and parents were informed in advance. Teacher participation was unanimous, showing strong support for workers' rights.
Giannis Giannakis, the former Commissioner of Volunteering, has been sentenced to three years in prison. The decision relates to the use of forged documents, including a high school diploma and a university degree. Judge Nicole Grigoriou imposed 18-month sentences for two of the charges. She emphasized that this case is more serious than previous ones due to the financial benefits the accused gained. The justice system is placing significant weight on combating fraud.
There is a possibility that tax returns for 2025 may be submitted through the Tax For All system in 2026. The Tax Commissioner stated that the installation of the new electronic system will be nearly completed by the end of 2026. This year is expected to witness record tax refunds, with €500 million refunded by August. The refund processes have been accelerated, with many refunds occurring within two weeks. The Tax Department is also investigating several complaints from citizens driven by personal motives.
The Police advise drivers to be cautious on the Nicosia-Kokkinochoria highway due to the presence of two goats. The animals entered the road on Thursday morning, causing traffic disruptions. Police officers have secured the goats in a safe area off the highway. A check is being conducted to see if there are any other animals in the vicinity. Drivers are urged to drive slowly and follow the Police's instructions.
Andreas Papacharalambous has accepted an invitation from ELAM to join their electoral list as a candidate for the parliamentary elections in the Nicosia District. The announcement highlights shared values and political approaches between the party and Papacharalambous. He stated that he is present with a pure heart and conscience, ready to speak for Cyprus. He has a university education and a rich political and social history. Currently, he works as a Business Consultant and is married with two children.
There were shootings at Evergreen High School in Colorado, resulting in serious injuries to three students. Two of the injured are classmates, and the shooter, who is also a student, shot himself and later died in the hospital. Authorities have urged citizens to stay away from the area. This incident marks the 47th armed attack on educational institutions in the U.S. this year. The situation is still being monitored, with authorities investigating the event.
Two seismic tremors occurred in Attica during the night with a few hours apart. The first earthquake measured 2 magnitude in Chalandri, followed by a second one of 2.5 magnitude in Kifisia. The second tremor was recorded around 1:40 AM with a focal depth of 11.1 kilometers. Shortly after, a weaker tremor of 1.2 magnitude was felt in the same area. Residents of Attica reacted strongly to the seismic activity.
Smaller banks in Cyprus are offering higher interest rates than larger ones, creating intense competition in the market. According to the Central Bank, these smaller banks provide better conditions for both depositors and borrowers. Returns on new deposits can reach up to 1.35%, compared to systemic banks that offer between 0.60% to 0.95%. Competition is also intensifying in loan offerings, with smaller banks increasing their market presence. This trend indicates a growing and more dynamic banking landscape in Cyprus.
The defense enhancement of Cyprus was discussed during a phone call between Foreign Ministers Constantinos Koumpos and Marco Rubio. The focus was on strengthening Cyprus's defense through military aid from the U.S. They also addressed current developments and the need for cooperation on security in the region. This marks the third communication between the two ministers this year. In-person meetings are expected in the near future.
ELAM is introducing new candidates for the upcoming elections, with former Mayor Andreas Papacharalambous and Lisa Kemitzis expected to join. Polls indicate that ELAM is gaining momentum by capitalizing on the weaknesses of other parties. Its pre-election activities are relatively quiet, which seems to benefit the party. The official announcement of the candidates is expected by early November. Overall, the party is focusing on supporting patriotic and conservative dialogue.
The Education Committee has identified gaps in the regulations concerning the appointment of teachers, particularly those with serious health problems. The Ministry of Education acknowledges the issue and plans to propose amendments. Teachers with chronic illnesses are assigned to schools far from their residences, causing significant challenges. There have been strong protests from patient and disability organizations. These teachers are negatively affected as decisions are not made based on their needs.
The first session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg announced the establishment of a European Firefighting Base in Cyprus, along with the release of 1.18 billion euros for the country. President Nikos Christodoulides welcomed these decisions, which align with the Cypriot government's goals of enhancing security in the region. The firefighting base will also support neighboring countries, addressing the impacts of climate change. Christodoulides thanked European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for this important initiative. This marks a significant moment that strengthens Cyprus's strategic role within the EU.
A general strike organized by 13 trade unions aims for massive participation from workers to restore the ATAs. The unions want to send a strong message of unity, regardless of whether individuals benefit from ATAs. Gatherings are set to take place in several cities, with a three-hour work stoppage. Those participating in the strike may face salary deductions. The situation at airports and schools is expected to be significantly affected.
The Permanent Criminal Court of Nicosia announced sentences in the case of the murder of Tansou Cintan, with the sentences for the prison guards sparking discussions. Two guards received three years in prison, while a third received 18 months with suspension. These penalties are unprecedented for prison staff and raise concerns about conditions in Central Prisons. The guards plan to appeal their convictions. The case raises questions about responsibilities and security in prisons.