A new impact study has revealed the profound and multifaceted role the University of Cyprus (UCY) plays in the country’s economy, innovation system, and society. For every €1 million invested in the university, the total economic output of Cyprus grows by €7.06 million, GDP rises by €3.42 million, and nearly 80 jobs are supported, according to research by the university’s own Centre for Economic Research.

The report highlights UCY’s total economic contribution at €1.186 billion, with a €574 million boost to national GDP and over 12,380 jobs directly or indirectly linked to its activities. Its efforts in reversing the brain drain alone generated €118 million in economic output in 2024, while fostering 985 high-value jobs.

Beyond the numbers, the report emphasizes UCY’s societal impact—from driving sustainability and digital literacy to elevating Cyprus as a research and education hub. Through competitive European grants—particularly 30 prestigious ERC awards—the university secures funding that injects external capital into the economy without straining the national budget.

The report also notes UCY’s increasing role as a public intellectual institution. Its academics regularly participate in national debates and advisory committees, influence public policy, and deliver critical insight on topics ranging from AI governance to environmental resilience. Notably, the KIOS Research and Innovation Center has led over 140 funded projects worth €60 million, producing technologies to enhance emergency response, healthcare, and energy sustainability.

Moreover, UCY plays a growing role in civic education and lifelong learning, hosting over 130 public events and more than 560 academic outreach activities in recent years. Its influence spans history, culture, and language, supporting initiatives like free Greek courses for refugees and diaspora youth and introducing financial literacy into schools.

As the report emphasizes, the conclusion is clear: investment in UCY is a high-return bet on Cyprus’s future.