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Author: Nikolina Frangoullidou

Celebrating 20 Years of Impact with Key Partners! 

At CARDET, inclusion in education isn’t just a goal—it’s a priority. Our partnership with University College Dublin reflects this shared commitment as we work together to empower students and educators through transformative digital innovations and impactful research.

Aligned with UCD’s Strategy to 2030, our collaboration is built on the values of integrity, collegiality, inclusion, creativity, and excellence. Together, we champion “Science for Good,” ensuring that research and education drive meaningful societal change.

A special thank you to Professor Eleni Mangina, Vice Principal International, College of Science, UCD, for her inspiring words and for being an integral part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of innovation and impact!

HR Executive

CARDET is the largest independent, non-profit research and development organisation in Cyprus with a strong presence in Europe and the region. At CARDET we envision a just and sustainable world where people learn and flourish. Our mission is to design innovative education and services that inspire and empower individuals and communities to thrive. We believe that education can be a powerful force for change. Our approach focuses on impact — through training, capacity building, awareness, and strategic communication — to help shape a better, more equitable world.

Application Deadline: June 21st, 2025

As our organization grows, we’re expanding our People & Culture team with a new HR Executive — a strategic, people-first professional who will help shape an exceptional employee experience across CARDET. This role combines daily coordination with support for broader strategic initiatives across HR and organizational development. It is ideal for a mission-aligned, experienced HR professional who thrives in a learning-focused, values-led environment. We’re looking for a growth-oriented insightful and caring HR professional, aligned with our values, who can collaborate with and contribute to our expanding HR team, demonstrating the following skills and attributes:

  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills
  • Strong organizational and coordination abilities
  • Proactive mindset with emotional intelligence and discretion
  • Fluency in Greek and English (written and spoken)
  • Team and work ethic
  • Analytical thinking and creative problem-solving skills
  • Resilience, adaptability, and a drive to grow

People Operations & Staff Communication

  • Ensure smooth execution of people-related processes (recruitment, onboarding, performance management, training, etc.)
  • Coordinate HR activities and scheduling across departments
  • Draft internal HR messaging, announcements, and calendar communications
  • Αct — together with the HR Officer — as a key point of contact for staff and the leadership team, ensuring that communication, support, and follow-up are timely, consistent, and people-centered.

HR Systems, Metrics & Analytics

  • Track, analyze, and report on key HR metrics and employee feedback
  • Maintain and update HR systems (PeopleHR, Knack)
  • Provide data-driven insights to support decision-making across the organization

Operational HR Delivery

  • Manage recruitment, onboarding, mentoring, and offboarding processes
  • Support employee lifecycle activities (check-ins, probation, transitions)
  • Provide guidance on employment law and HR compliance
  • Prepare HR documentation (contracts, offer letters, certifications, etc)
  • Develop and update job descriptions and job advertisements
  • Support training logistics and internal learning platforms
  • Coordinate recognition and wellbeing programs
  • Draft, review and update policies aligned with organizational goals

Key People & Culture Projects
Collaborate with the Director of People, Culture & Happiness on:

  • Enhancing the performance management system
  • Developing reward and recognition frameworks
  • Shaping the learning & development strategy (skills audits, training plans, career paths)
  • Supporting leadership development and internal communication
  • Designing employee wellbeing and engagement initiatives
  • Bachelor ’s degree in HR Management, Organisational Psychology, Business, Management, or related field
  • Master’s degree in a related field
  • Proven experience in a similar role, particularly in policy development
  • Demonstrated success in performance and talent management
  • Experience with DEI and reward initiatives (a plus)
  • Familiarity with HR systems
  • Experience with learning & development strategy (preferred)
  • A welcoming, inclusive and supportive workplace culture
  • A purpose-driven role in a values-led organization
  • A comprehensive Employee Health & Wellbeing program
  • Opportunities for lifelong learning and professional development
  • Work that makes a meaningful contribution to society
  • Provident Fund
  • 13th salary
  • Generous annual and wellbeing leave
  • Fully paid maternity and paternity leave
  • Flexible hybrid work arrangements
  • Travel opportunities for training and development

If this sounds like your next professional step and you’re excited to shape meaningful HR experiences in a dynamic and people-first environment, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and cover letter by June 21st, 2025 through the following link.

To be considered for any of our positions, shortlisted applicants must complete a self-declaration form to confirm they have never been subject to sanctions (disciplinary, administrative or criminal), provide the contact details of at least 2 work related referees and certificates of clear criminal records by the Cyprus Police and be willing to provide samples of their work.

The position will remain open until it is filled. All applications will be treated in strict confidence.

Due to the large number of applications we receive, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

CARDET complies with GDPR. For details about our privacy policy, visit https://www.cardet.org/privacy-policy

Should you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at 22 002100.

CARDET is an HR Award winning, equal opportunities, disability confident, employer of choice. We have recently been accredited with the Sound Industrial Relations 2014 standard. We are committed to safeguarding and are against all forms of sexual abuse and exploitation. To be considered for any of our positions, shortlisted applicants must complete a self-declaration form to confirm they have never been subject to sanctions (disciplinary, administrative or criminal), provide the contact details of at least 2 work related referees and certificates of clear criminal records by the Cyprus Police and be willing to provide samples of their work. 

A Day of Smiles and Wellbeing at the 2nd Happiness & Well-Being Fair 2025

On Saturday, May 17th, the Strovolos Municipal Hall was filled with positive energy, laughter, and joyful encounters as the Happiness & Well-Being Fair 2025 returned for its second consecutive year—more vibrant, creative, and inspiring than ever.

Organised by CARDET and the Institute of Development N. Charalambous, in collaboration with the Municipality of Strovolos and the Strovolos Open School, the Fair was held in honour of the International Day of Happiness (March 20). It served as a powerful reminder that happiness is a fundamental human right and a driving force for resilience, solidarity, and sustainable development.

The festival brought together people of all ages in a celebration of community, connection, and self-care. Through art and shared experiences, attendees were reminded of the simple yet meaningful ways we can cultivate happiness in our everyday lives.

We extend our thanks to everyone who embraced this initiative with such enthusiasm. Special thanks to our supporters: the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth, the Cyprus Pedagogical Institute, the Office of the Commissioner for the Citizen, the Commissioner for Children’s Rights, the Cyprus Red Cross Youth Section, the Pancyprian Coordinating Council for Volunteering, and the Youth Board of Cyprus—as well as our media sponsor, NJOY Radio CY.

As the event continues to grow, it reaffirms our ongoing commitment to promoting happiness and mental wellbeing across society. We look forward to welcoming you again next year for another day filled with smiles, kindness, and positive energy!

EU Project Manager/ Researcher in the area of Youth, Active citizenship and Inclusion

CARDET is the largest independent, non-profit research and development organisation in Cyprus with a strong presence in Europe and the region. At CARDET we envision a just and sustainable world where people learn and flourish. Our mission is to design innovative education and services that inspire and empower individuals and communities to thrive. We believe that education can be a powerful force for change. A large part of global problems and challenges are a result of the lack of knowledge, skill, and competencies. Our approach to education aims to have a strong social impact and help shape a better world through education, training, capacity building, awareness raising, and communication.

If you want to have an impact and are interested in working for a purpose-driven organisation, we would like to hear from you as we expand our teams with new opportunities.

CARDET is interested in hiring an experienced EU Project Manager who will be responsible for facilitating and executing EU/ research projects in the field of youth, active citizenship and inclusion. We are looking for high calibre individuals who demonstrate the following attributes: 

  • Excellent writing skills
  • Fluency in English and Greek with excellent writing skills
  • Strong communication skills
  • Good organisational and time management skills
  • Pleasant personality with excellent collaboration and teamwork skills
  • Resilience and agility
  • Creative mind, patterned with problem solving ability
  • Willingness to learn and take initiative
  • Management and implementation of EU research projects.
  • Define project scope, objectives, and deliverables, ensuring alignment with the Centre’s research goals.
  • Prepare data collection instruments, collect, and analyse data.
  • Conduct fieldwork research (interviews, survey research, observations, focus groups).
  • Conduct literature reviews and prepare reports.
  • Liaise and coordinate with external partners, ensuring alignment in objectives, timelines, and resources.
  • Update stakeholders through formal reports, maintain comprehensive project documentation, and ensure all processes are transparent and traceable.
  • Regularly review project progress, ensuring timely completion.
  • Facilitate the organisation of workshops and dissemination activities.
  • Design courses for face-to-face, blended, and online delivery.
  • Deliver and facilitate training seminars/webinars in certain areas of expertise.
  • Develop reports, project outputs, training material.
  • Prepare and deliver project presentations.
  • Coordinate research, projects, and teams to successfully complete deliverables.
  • Travel abroad for project meetings, events, and conferences.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Sociology, Social Sciences or other related field
  • Previous experience with EU projects in a similar position is essential
  • Previous proven experience in managing research or similar complex projects, emphasizing planning, implementation, execution, and stakeholder management.
  • A Masters and/or PhD in a related field would be considered an asset
  • Project Management qualification, e.g. PRINCE 2 or other methodology would be considered an advantage.
  • Demonstrable knowledge in any of the following domains:
    ▪ Youth empowerment
    ▪ Civic engagement
    ▪ Social inclusion
    ▪ Social justice
  • An inclusive, supportive work environment with a positive culture
  • A portfolio of Employee Health & Wellbeing initiatives
  • Lifelong learning opportunities
  • Challenging and rewarding work with purpose and impact to society
  • Provident Fund
  • 13th salary 
  • Generous annual leave
  • Fully paid maternity and paternity leave
  • Hybrid work
  • Shorter Fridays
  • Travel opportunities

If you are ready to embark on an exciting career journey and eager to make a positive impact in a dynamic organisation , you can complete our online application form and submit an up-to-date CV, and cover letter indicating your experience to the Hiring Committee by June 10th 2025 through this link.

To be considered for any of our positions, shortlisted applicants must complete a self-declaration form to confirm they have never been subject to sanctions (disciplinary, administrative or criminal), provide the contact details of at least 2 work related referees and certificates of clear criminal records by the Cyprus Police and be willing to provide samples of their work.

The position will remain open until it is filled. All applications will be treated in strict confidence.

Due to the large number of applications we receive, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

CARDET complies with GDPR. For details about our privacy policy, visit https://www.cardet.org/privacy-policy

Should you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at 22 002100.

CARDET is an HR Award winning, equal opportunities, disability confident, employer of choice. We have recently been accredited with the Sound Industrial Relations 2014 standard. We are committed to safeguarding and are against all forms of sexual abuse and exploitation. To be considered for any of our positions, shortlisted applicants must complete a self-declaration form to confirm they have never been subject to sanctions (disciplinary, administrative or criminal), provide the contact details of at least 2 work related referees and certificates of clear criminal records by the Cyprus Police and be willing to provide samples of their work. 

CARDET Joins European Youth Exchange to Champion Mental Wellbeing and Inclusion

As part of our ongoing commitment to youth empowerment through the Youth-Well Project, CARDET proudly participated in the “Resilient and Democratic Youth” European youth exchange held in Brussels from May 6–8, 2025. This inspiring event brought together young people and youth workers from across Europe to explore critical themes such as mental wellbeing, inclusion, participation, and solidarity—especially among youth from underrepresented communities.

During the three-day event, participants engaged in a variety of non-formal education activities designed to strengthen resilience and encourage active, informed citizenship. Highlights included insightful discussions on mental health, dynamic multicultural team-building exercises, and interactive simulations of the European Parliament. These sessions created a vibrant and inclusive environment where young people could exchange ideas, learn from each other, and grow both personally and collectively.

The group also visited the House of European History, where participants reflected on the development of democracy and the crucial role that youth continue to play in safeguarding democratic values today.

Beyond learning, the exchange served as a powerful platform for building lasting connections. We strengthened existing collaborations, forged new partnerships, and returned with fresh ideas and renewed motivation to enhance the impact of our work in youth wellbeing and inclusion.We are grateful to all the organizers and participants who made this experience so meaningful. As coordinators of the Youth-Well Project, we are more committed than ever to fostering inclusive societies where all young people have the support, space, and voice they need to thrive.

Visit the Youth-Well Project website here!

CARDET Participates in the 5th International Conference on Professional Development in Mathematics and Science Education

CARDET successfully participated in the 5th International Conference on Professional Development in Mathematics and Science Education (ETE 2025), held on May 8th and 9th in Limassol. Organized by the University of Nicosia (UNIC) and the International Centre for STEM Education (ICSE), the conference brought together researchers, educators, and policymakers to address key challenges and opportunities in 21st-century STEM education.

Focusing on four key themes—Diversity in STEM Classrooms, STEM Education in the Digital Era, Interdisciplinarity in STEM Education, and Sustainability in STEM Education—the conference served as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas and innovative practices.

As part of our commitment to advancing STEM education, we presented three groundbreaking projects: TINKER, RoboAquaria, and INFINITE. These initiatives are designed to promote innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary learning, providing educators with tools and resources to create inclusive and engaging STEM learning environments.

Our participation in this conference motivates us to continue empowering teachers and developing innovative tools, resources, and opportunities that contribute to the ongoing transformation of STEM education on a global scale.

Students Dive into Marine Education and Robotics with RoboAquaria

Over the past three months we have successfully completed the piloting activities of the RoboAquaria project, an innovative initiative that combines robotics, digital tools, and Marine Education to raise environmental and climate awareness among young learners.

Over the course of three piloting rounds, students from Saint Nicolas Primary School and Trachoni A’ Primary School in Cyprus engaged in a series of interactive workshops focused on developing STEAM and Green skills. Through hands-on activities, students explored the fundamentals of robotics, designed and built their own robots, and learned how technology can support environmental communication and advocacy.

The piloting activities allowed educators to implement the RoboAquaria Toolkit, the Marine Education curriculum, and the project’s eLearning platform, promoting creativity, collaboration, and digital literacy in the classroom.

RoboAquaria aims to protect marine environments by integrating Educational Robotics into primary education and strengthening teachers’ competences. As part of its outcomes, the project is developing a Methodological Framework for piloting, Guidelines for Teachers, a validated RoboAquaria Toolkit with Lesson Topics, and an E-Learning Toolkit featuring Open Educational Resources (OERs) and Lesson Plans.

By bridging technology and environmental education, RoboAquaria empowers students to become active agents of change for a sustainable future.
Find out more about the project here.

TEAMWORK2 Releases its Latest Newsletter

As the TEAMWORK2 Project draws to a close, we celebrate its achievements in tackling workplace sexual harassment across Europe. From awareness campaigns to legal support and high-level discussions, the project has fostered collaboration, shared knowledge, and driven meaningful action, culminating in a powerful final conference in Milan.

Don’t miss the final edition of the 3rd TEAMWORK2 newsletter, highlighting these milestones and more.

TEAMWORK 2: Breaking the Taboos of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

For two years, the European project TEAMWORK 2 has opened up the dialogue, bringing to the surface an issue that for years remained taboo: sexual harassment in the workplace! With the participation of six countries, including Cyprus, and supported by the European Union, the project brought together voices, experiences, and good practices to help shape a new, safer working environment for all. 

Aiming to promote gender equality, diversity, and the fight against all forms of discrimination, the project partners developed, among other things, useful tools such as:

  • An Online Learning Platform for human resource professionals,
  • Guides for training programs focused on skills development for senior management and the implementation of good practices,
  • and a Policy Recommendations Paper that includes practical recommendations for creating safer, inclusive workplaces, free from exclusion, fear, and harassment.

Cyprus is taking a big step forward with the enactment of new legislation in 2025 targeting the prevention of violence and harassment in the workplace. This legislation introduces strict regulations to ensure the protection of employees at work, extending beyond the traditional office setting to include events, seminars, and even digital communication through platforms and social media.

The TEAMWORK 2 Policy Recommendations Paper proposes even bolder measures for Cyprus and Europe:

  • Mandatory, systematic training for all employees on the prevention and handling of violence/harassment incidents.
  • Implementation of anonymous and secure reporting mechanisms via a HelpDesk line.
  • Establishment of independent bodies to impartially handle complaints.

For more information about the TEAMWORK 2 project, visit: www.teamwork2project.eu

Planning SEEDs Project Wraps Up with a Successful Final Event

We are proud to announce the successful completion of the Planning SEEDs project—an innovative European initiative that has championed the development of Solidarity Economy Districts (SEEDs) to promote social, economic, and environmental sustainability.

Throughout the project, partners from across Europe worked together to empower local communities through participatory governance and resilient territorial development. The final event marked the culmination of this collaborative journey, celebrating key outcomes and a shared vision for a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Key Highlights and Achievements

  • Strengthening Local Food Systems
    Developed and supported Short Food Supply Chains (SFSCs) to stimulate local economies and encourage sustainable food practices.
  • Building a European Community of Practice
    Brought together citizens, organizations, and local authorities to foster knowledge exchange and collaborative action.
  • Delivering Insightful Research
    Produced comprehensive reports at both EU and national levels to support evidence-based policymaking.
  • Creating an Online Ecosystem
    Launched a digital platform to enhance SEED coordination, facilitate community engagement, and build local capacity.
  • Shaping Policy and Practice
    Developed actionable policy guidelines and recommendations to support local governments in advancing the social and solidarity economy.

To learn more about the project’s outcomes and access resources, visit the website here.