President Nikos Christodoulides presented the 2024 Cyprus Innovation Awards of the Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB) during a ceremony held in Nicosia, which also featured the announcement of the Cyprus Research Awards by the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF). The event honoured outstanding achievements in innovation, scientific research, and social impact—further supporting Cyprus’ strategy to become a leading hub in technology and knowledge-based development.

In the Primary Sector, Charalambides Christis Ltd was awarded for its pioneering implementation of the Animal Welfare certification programme across farms in Cyprus, marking a significant step towards ethical and sustainable food production.

In the Manufacturing Sector, Advanced Automation Systems Ltd was recognised for developing intelligent production methods for drip irrigation tubing using Artificial Intelligence, enhancing efficiency in agricultural technology.

In the Services Sector, KEDIFAP Ltd received the award for creating and operating a cutting-edge automated centre for receiving, storing, sorting, and distributing goods using robotic systems—streamlining logistics through advanced automation.

In the Social Innovation category, the award went to the Cyprus Institute / Andreas Pittas Art Characterisation Laboratories (APAC Labs) for developing innovative analysis and documentation technologies for the study, protection, and promotion of cultural heritage.

In the Distinguished Researcher category for Natural Sciences and Engineering, both Professor George Georgiou and Professor Jean Sciare were recognised for their exceptional scientific contributions.

In the Young Researcher category:

• Dr. Simone Bacchio was awarded in Natural Sciences and Engineering;

• Dr. Evelina Charidimou received the award in Life Sciences;

• Dr. Pinelopi Konstantinou was honoured in the field of Social Sciences.

In the category of Commercial Exploitation of Research Results, Dr. Irini Sargiannidou and the Department of Neurosciences team at the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics were awarded for successfully translating research into marketable applications.