Archbishop Ieronymos II Lauds Establishment of University of Athens – Cyprus Branch
Athens, February 26 – Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens and All Greece delivered a significant address at the event celebrating the founding and operation of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens – Cyprus Branch. The ceremony, held on February 25, 2026, highlighted the strategic importance of this new academic venture for both nations.
A New Era of Academic Collaboration
In his speech, Archbishop Ieronymos II underscored the mutual benefits of this expansion, particularly in fostering collaborations with the University of Cyprus. “There is every reason to rejoice in this outward-looking development. Prospective academic collaborations with the University of Cyprus-a public institution of high standing-will undoubtedly prove mutually enriching, and it is society at large, in both Greece and Cyprus, that will ultimately reap the many benefits and achievements that flow from such cooperation,” stated the Archbishop.
He further elaborated on the critical role of education in an evolving global landscape. “In an uncertain global environment, marked by unprecedented developments and uncharted waters at every level, education and learning will always remain the indispensable condition for any meaningful journey into the future. Young people in Cyprus will now have at their disposal yet another trusted arena in which to test themselves, to excel in research and innovation, to engage critically and creatively with the realities of their lives, to pass knowledge on to future generations, and to attain heights of scientific excellence and moral integrity-qualities of which our world stands in such pressing need.”
The Legacy and Future of the University of Athens
The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, established on May 3, 1837, holds a distinguished position as the oldest and largest higher education institution in Greece. Initially known as the “Othonian University,” it quickly became a pivotal institution in the development of knowledge and culture in the Greek state and the broader Balkan and Mediterranean region.
Archbishop Ieronymos II acknowledged the University’s enduring legacy and its recent advancements. “The University of Athens-the oldest and largest higher education institution in Greece-holds a distinguished place in international rankings and has achieved some of its most notable advances in recent years. It engages in substantial research partnerships with leading universities worldwide and maintains a position of intellectual leadership among the educational and research institutions of the Balkan Peninsula.”
He also highlighted the strong historical ties between the University and Cyprus. “That deep personal bond is strengthened by the many Cypriot students who have passed through its lecture halls, and by its Cypriot graduates over the course of two centuries-some of whom have gone on to become prominent figures in public life.”
Expanding Presence in South-Eastern Europe
The establishment of the Cyprus Branch marks a significant step in enhancing the University’s presence in South-Eastern Europe and further solidifying its ties with the Republic of Cyprus. This initiative is expected to provide Cypriot youth with enhanced opportunities for academic excellence and innovation.
The Archbishop concluded his address with a blessing for the new branch: “I extend my congratulations to all who have contributed to the achievement we celebrate today. I pray that Our Lord Jesus Christ may abundantly bless the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens – Cyprus Branch and guide it in its noble mission.”
Recent Developments at the University of Athens
The University of Athens continues to be a hub of academic activity and innovation. Recent events include:
- February 17, 2026: The Athens and Belgrade Medical Schools signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the presence of Serbia’s Prime Minister, Djuro Macut, and Rector, Gerasimos Siasos.
- February 9, 2026: The University of Athens School of Medicine launched its Clinical Simulation Programme, a historic milestone for medical education.
- Recently: The University of Athens School of Health Sciences honored Greece’s Alternate Minister of Health, Eirini Agapidaki, for her contributions to public health.
- Ongoing: The University developed and validated an online tool to measure susceptibility to misinformation from fake news.
These initiatives underscore the University’s commitment to advancing education, research, and societal well-being.
