The ongoing European migrant crisis is unlikely to be resolved in the near future, making it necessary to provide for the education of tens of thousands of young migrants and refugees in the meantime. This was stressed, inter alia, during on a recent visit to the University of Nicosia by the Representative of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in Cyprus.
Speaking at the meeting, the Representative, Mr. Damtew Dessalegne, highlighted the huge problems facing the organization in offering a proper education to refugees. Upon returning to their homelands, these individuals will need to be prepared to serve in key areas, such as education, medicine, technology, and the economy. In line with this, Mr. Dessalegne called for support from local higher education institutions in each region, in order to work towards providing a more conducive framework.
The UNHCR Representative was received by a delegation of the University of Nicosia, which included the President of the Council, Prof. Nicos Kartakoullis, the Rector, Prof. Philippos Pouyioutas, and the CEO, Mr. Antonis Polemitis. The University representatives, in turn, briefed Mr. Dessalegne in detail about the activities and objectives of the University of Nicosia. The Rector referred to the academic programmes offered by the University, with an emphasis on distance learning and the Medical School. On his part, the CEO spoke about the strategy that the University has embarked on in the years to come, which also involves greater internationalization and outreach activity.
The University officials also noted the important community activity of the University of Nicosia, beyond its core academic and research functions. Particular reference was made to the University’s socially responsible role in the country, including the support it offers to disadvantaged and economically vulnerable population groups, as well as to immigrants in Cyprus. Within this wider prism and policy, the University delegation assured the UNHCR Representative that the University will assist in their worthwhile efforts and contribute towards the education of young refugees and migrants.