Technology and innovation are picking up pace rapidly around the world. Cyprus currently falls behind in its capacity to keep up with global technological advancements, as the Cyprus Digital Coalition indicates that only 2.9% of people aged 15-74 in Cyprus are ICT graduates. Meaning that the island is lacking in technological skills and knowledge beyond basic ones such as using social media and everyday devices. However, the narrative has potential to quickly change. 

Cyprus is home to several organizations geared towards accentuating collaboration for the betterment of Cypriot society, scaling businesses, enhancing public services, and creating a better future. At the forefront of this transformation is CYENS, the Centre of Excellence in Research and Innovation in Cyprus. 

Dr. Yiorgos Chrysanthou, the General Director of CYENS, is among the pioneers driving this shift. In Future Talks’ 113th episode, Dr. Chrysanthou shared his insights on the current need for collaboration among organizations to facilitate technological advancement and his vision for the future of Cyprus’ technology and innovation ecosystems.

As one of the first Cypriot ICT professionals to hold a Ph.D. in computer graphics, Dr. Chrysanthou's expertise and passion have been instrumental in shaping the future of technology in Cyprus. After teaching at the University College of London (UCL), he returned to Cyprus in 2001 to contribute to the University of Cyprus. Over time, he assembled a diverse team, culminating in the creation of CYENS.

As one of seven centers of excellence in Cyprus, CYENS is actively involved in a wide range of areas, including extended reality projects. Collaborating with industry giants like Sony, CYENS has contributed its expertise in storyboarding and technology to support cutting-edge initiatives. 

The center currently hosts 19 small teams comprising experts in computer vision, animation, virtual reality, and human factors. These multidisciplinary teams, which include psychologists and neuroscientists, blend art and technical skills to create unique and authentic experiences.

CYENS closely monitors emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence (AI), while acknowledging the ethical implications they bring. Dr. Chrysanthou emphasizes the importance of regulating technology to prevent crises as it continues to evolve and impact our daily lives. With 130 passionate professionals working together, CYENS is dedicated to creating and developing exciting projects, one of which is iNicosia.

The iNicosia project focuses on building a digital twin of the city, starting with the center of Nicosia and gradually encompassing the entire city. Dr. Chrysanthou highlights that this endeavor is not merely about creating a visually appealing replica of the city but also about making it functional. As Nicosia moves toward becoming a smart city, a digital twin becomes crucial for identifying and improving the city's infrastructure shortcomings, and in guiding the shift towards sustainability and smart cities. 

iNicosia will feature an open API, enabling institutions and companies to create their own applications on the platform. This technology has vast potential for tourism, real estate development, and other sectors. Additionally, CYENS is experimenting with augmented reality to enable people to "walk together" and experience the city despite physical distances.

CYENS serves as a hub for innovation and collaboration, working closely with the Municipality of Nicosia to develop an innovation ecosystem. The center's upcoming move to a new building in the old city of Nicosia aims to foster an environment where individuals and organizations can collaborate on various projects. 

With expertise, research capabilities, and partnerships with institutions like the Max Planck Institute of Germany and UCL, CYENS provides a platform to support those interested in investing in technology development. In the next 4-5 months, CYENS plans to launch an accelerator program that will work in tandem with iNicosia's digital twin API, allowing innovators to leverage its capabilities.

CYENS is also a founding partner of the European Digital Innovation Hub established in Cyprus, DiGiNN, funded by the EU. In collaboration with various local institutions coordinated by the Cyprus Institute, CYENS aims to provide free training in technology, cybersecurity, the internet of things (IoT), and innovation. 

These initiatives encourage organizations to explore emerging technologies, facilitate the upskilling and reskilling of Cypriot professionals, and further enhance Cyprus's innovation landscape.

The active involvement and support of the Municipality of Nicosia are crucial for nurturing and expanding the innovation ecosystem. Dr. Chrysanthou believes that true value is created through collaboration. 

CYENS welcomes partnerships with international and regional companies, offering a large co-working space for small teams and opportunities for larger organizations to invest in the future CYENS buildings. This concerted effort is likely to lead to the establishment of Nicosia's first-ever technology and innovation cluster, bolstering Cyprus's prospects and inspiring the country's future.

Dr. Chrysanthou firmly believes that Cyprus harbors great scientists and researchers across its universities. The distinction of CYENS lies in conducting research that is not only excellent but also useful and impactful for the wider population. 

Notably, research teams affiliated with CYENS have already developed projects with market applications. With the new CYENS facilities, Dr. Chrysanthou is confident that the center will contribute further to the public good while empowering businesses and organizations to explore and develop emerging technologies.

CYENS is helping lead the charge towards a thriving innovation and technology ecosystem in Cyprus. By combining expertise, fostering collaboration, and embracing emerging technologies, CYENS is poised to create great opportunities for Cyprus.

Watch the full Future Talks episode here for a deeper dive into Dr. Yiorgos Chrysanthou’s vision for the future of CYENS and that of the Cypriot technology and innovation ecosystem.