The second ECT Forum will bring together academics, researchers, technology specialists and industry representatives in Nicosia on October 8 to examine how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are changing the skills needed in the labour market.

The ECT Forum 2026, organised by the Cyprus-based non-profit European Centre for Emerging Competencies and Technologies (ECECT), will take place at the UNESCO Amphitheatre of the University of Nicosia from 9am to 5pm.

The forum is intended to strengthen cooperation between education, research and the private sector at a time when rapid technological change is creating new demands for knowledge and skills.

Artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies are reshaping workplaces and changing the requirements for both young people entering the labour market and professionals already working in established industries.

The organisers said education systems therefore face increasing pressure to adapt to these changes and ensure that graduates and workers are equipped with skills that reflect the needs of a rapidly evolving economy.

The second ECT Forum will bring together participants from Cyprus and abroad, representing academia, industry, research and the technology sector.

The programme will include presentations, discussions and thematic panels covering artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and future skills.

A central theme will be the relationship between education and industry requirements.

The forum will also examine ways of strengthening dialogue between universities, businesses, researchers and technology organisations so that developments in education and training can respond more effectively to changes in the labour market.

The event will additionally showcase European research and education initiatives, including the Erasmus+ project DITEC, or Didactic Technologies for IT Education.

The project is examining how information technology education can be better aligned with industry needs that are continuously changing as technology develops.

The organisers said the forum will provide an opportunity to discuss not only technological developments themselves but also the competencies needed to apply new technologies effectively.

This includes the growing importance of digital skills and artificial intelligence alongside wider changes in the competencies expected by employers.

The forum is organised by ECECT, a Cyprus-based non-profit organisation active in education, research, training and emerging technologies.

Its work focuses on areas including digital skills, artificial intelligence and robotics.

The organisation aims to contribute to the development of education and training in response to technological change and evolving labour-market needs.

Participation in the forum is free, although registration is required because places are limited.

The event will be held in English at the University of Nicosia’s UNESCO Amphitheatre on Thursday, October 8, from 9am until 5pm.

Further information and registration are available through the ECT Forum website.