The House education committee examined the budgets of the University of Cyprus and the Open University of Cyprus on Wednesday, highlighting pressing financial and administrative challenges.
Deputy chair of the committee, Chrysanthos Savvides, revealed that the University of Cyprus’ budget stands at €225 million and is balanced.

“We hope the university will take the next step forward,” he said.

However, concerns were raised about cybersecurity risks at the Open University of Cyprus, which has a €18.9 million budget. Savvides criticised the government for failing to approve two crucial cybersecurity positions, leaving the institution vulnerable.

“Despite repeated warnings for two years, these positions remain unfilled, putting the university’s security at risk,” he warned.

Dipa MP Alekos Tryfonides also expressed concerns over the Open University’s lack of staff and structural support. He stressed the need for new academic departments that align with the country’s economy and industry.

A more serious issue, he noted, is that the finance ministry has not allocated any new administrative positions.

“Without proper staffing, the university cannot function effectively,” Tryfonides said, calling for immediate intervention.

On the University of Cyprus, Tryfonides condemned the government’s failure to fund student dormitories, calling it “a disgrace”. He revealed that, in 24 years, not a single new room has been built, with student accommodation remaining at just 208 rooms since the university’s founding.

“For yet another year, there is no budget allocation for dormitories. Students are forced to pay exorbitant rents for private housing,” he said, blaming the education ministry, the finance ministry and the government for neglecting the issue.

Tryfonides insisted that the matter would not be ignored.

“We will not let this pass. If the necessary funds are not included in the budget, we will take action,” he warned, hinting at blocking other budgetary allocations.

He called on President Nikos Christodoulides to intervene and ensure the funding is secured before the budget is approved.

“This is unacceptable. If no action is taken, we will be forced to block various other funds – except for salaries – until a solution is found,” he said.

The MP emphasised that public universities must offer affordable student housing, shielding students from the €800-€1,000 per month cost of private dormitories.

“We support public universities and their vital role, but the state must also do its part. education should not be a privilege only for those who can afford it,” he concluded.