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Author: Veronica Charalambous

SOOS: Breaking the Silence on Domestic Violence Through Art and Dialogue

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

An evocative evening dedicated to raising awareness on domestic violence was held on Thursday, June 26, in Nicosia, under the EU-funded project Sons of Silence (SOOS), implemented in Cyprus by CARDET. Using the transformative power of art and open dialogue, the event aimed to shed light on the often-invisible issue of domestic violence—an enduring social problem that frequently remains hidden behind closed doors.

At the heart of the evening was the theatrical performance “Agrafos” (in English: “Unwritten”), written and directed by Giorgos Papakonstantinou. The monologue, delivered with emotional intensity by actor Fanos Theofanous and accompanied by live music from Savvas Chrysostomou, powerfully portrayed the lived experience of a victim of domestic violence. The music, symbolising the role of the perpetrator, conveyed the psychological strain and unspoken suffering with haunting sensitivity—offering a visceral insight into a typically silenced reality.

Opening addresses were delivered by:

  • Mr. Christos Christofides, Member of Parliament for Nicosia and member of the Parliamentary Committee on Education, who stated: “A human-centred and courageous educational system plays a critical role in tackling domestic violence, breaking down entrenched barriers and paving the way towards a more just and equal society. Art, likewise, is a force of social justice and progressive change”.
  • Mr. Chrysanthos Fakas, Deputy Mayor of Nicosia, representing Mayor Mr. Charalambos Prountzos, highlighted: “Through such initiatives, we aim to illuminate the unseen and give voice to those who have long been silenced”.
  • Mr. Andreas Georgiou, Chief Operating Officer at CARDET, remarked: “Silence surrounding domestic violence often stems from our collective failure to listen, to see, and to act”.

The event also featured a panel discussion with the participation of leading experts in the field: Ms. Ifigenia Katchie, Executive and Scientific Director and Gender Expert at the Social Policy and Action Organisation, and Ms. Thelma Lazarou, Clinical Psychologist. Their insights further enriched the discourse and provided critical perspectives on prevention, support, and systemic change. Foteini Sokratous, Project Manager of SOOS and CARDET Researcher was coordinating the event.

CARDET warmly thanks all who attended the event, the creators and contributors of the performance, the speakers, the panelists, and the Municipality of Nicosia for their invaluable cooperation.

The evening served as a poignant reminder that change begins when we dare to see, to listen, and to speak out.

Violence is not a private matter. It is a collective social responsibility.

The aim of the SOOS project is to raise awareness about the potential impact of domestic violence (DV) on youth and to highlight the risks of experiencing DV and its potential effects on the physical, emotional, and psychological health of youth. The SOOS project also aims to provide resources and support to those affected by DV and to educate the public on preventative measures. Ultimately, SOOS project endeavours to reduce the prevalence of DV in our society and create safer and healthier environments for young people.

Learn more about the project here!

Youth-Well in Colour: “Carry Your Voice: Paint Your Tote Bag for Youth Empowerment”

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

Young people in Cyprus express themselves through art, reflection, and community engagement as part of the Youth-Well project.

On the evening of 25 June 2025, Athalassa Park came alive with colour, creativity, and conversation, as young people aged 18–30 gathered for “Carry Your Voice: Paint Your Tote Bag for Youth Empowerment” — a unique, hands-on workshop organised by CARDET and KOKEN under the EU-funded Youth-Well project.

The event offered participants a safe and inspiring space to explore vital themes such as mental health, resilience, and active citizenship. Through a blend of artistic expression and open dialogue, young attendees were encouraged to reflect on their experiences, values, and aspirations.

The workshop opened with a short but impactful talk on mental health, setting the tone for an evening of self-expression and awareness. It was followed by a guided creative session led by artist-researcher Andriana Panagi and psychology researcher Giota Mastrosavvaki, PhD (c), who encouraged participants to translate their thoughts and emotions into personalised tote bag designs.

With all materials provided, participants turned blank canvases into vibrant statements — visual narratives that not only showcased their artistic talents but also highlighted their individual and collective voices on issues that matter.

This event forms part of the wider Youth-Well initiative, which aims to promote the wellbeing and empowerment of young people across Europe by encouraging creative engagement and community building.

CARDET and KOKEN extend their sincere thanks to all who participated in this inspiring event, and to the facilitators whose guidance and passion helped bring the workshop to life.

Watch some highlights from the event available here!

The Youth-Well project tackles the challenges at the intersection of European youth, mental health, democracy and resilience. One of its biggest goals is to connect young people across participating Member States so they can take their future, their mental health, and their participation in democracy into their own hands. Youth-Well also helps young people set up their own initiatives and projects which equally advocate for mental health and active citizenship.

Read more about the project here.

Successful Piloting of the RALExILA Project: “National Registries of Adult Learning and Education to Support the Deployment of Individual Learning Accounts” in Cyprus

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

The piloting event of the EU co-financed project RALExILA – National Registries of Adult Learning and Education to Support the Deployment of Individual Learning Accounts successfully took place on Friday, 20 June 2025, at CARDET’s Education Hub in Nicosia.

The initiative, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, focuses on enhancing adult learning systems across Europe by establishing comprehensive National Adult Learning and Education (ALE) Registries and promoting the implementation of Individual Learning Accounts (ILAs). The piloting session in Cyprus marked a crucial step in testing and refining the models developed under the RALExILA framework.

Participants representing a range of stakeholders – from education professionals and policy advisors to digital system developers and quality assurance experts – engaged in an interactive agenda that included:

  • A presentation of the current landscape of adult learning registries and ILAs across Europe
  • An introduction to the RALExILA conceptual model
  • Discussions on challenges, stakeholder needs, quality assurance mechanisms, and system governance
  • Reflection on user experience and insights into improving the feasibility, accessibility, and usability of the system

Through their contributions, participants supported the development of a proof of concept and provided valuable feedback for the finalisation of the forthcoming Handbook for National Registries for ALE.

The event concluded with a reflective session and a light networking lunch, reinforcing the commitment of all involved to strengthen adult learning infrastructures across Europe.

For more information about the project, visit: https://ralexila.eu/ 

CARDET Participates in Regional Dialogue on Gender Equality at the Albanian Forum on Women Empowerment

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Blog.

On 20 June 2025, Foteini Sokratous, representing CARDET, participated in the panel discussion “Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Women’s Empowerment in the Euro-Med Region”, as part of the Albanian Forum on Women Empowerment. The session was organised within the framework of the Anna Lindh Foundation (ALF), which fosters intercultural dialogue and collaboration across the Euro-Mediterranean region.

Bringing forward CARDET’s experience in inclusive education, gender equality, and youth empowerment, Foteini Sokratous highlighted best practices and insights from key initiatives such as EMERGE Project, HEARD Project, CARDET’s internal establishment of the Inclusion Committee, and in-house training sessions on topics such as the use of inclusive language. Her intervention focused on practical, community-based approaches that challenge entrenched gender roles while empowering women and youth to take on leadership roles in diverse societal contexts.

The panel brought together experts from Austria, Romania, North Macedonia, and Lebanon, all active members of the ALF network, to explore cultural dynamics, policy gaps, and collaborative strategies for overcoming systemic gender-based barriers. The discussion addressed pressing issues such as workplace discrimination, underrepresentation in leadership, and the role of education and media in shaping gender narratives.

A central message of the session was the need to move from dialogue to action. Emphasis was placed on strengthening regional cooperation, promoting capacity-building, and leveraging programmes like ERASMUS+ to scale impact through strategic partnerships.

CARDET’s participation underscored its ongoing commitment to advancing social inclusion, intercultural collaboration, and gender-responsive practices that contribute to a more just and equitable Euro-Med region.

Celebrating 20 Years of Impact with Key Partners! 

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in 20 years, 20 Years of Impact.

🎓 Shaping the Future of Educational Research – Together 🎓

From the early steps of his academic career to today, Prof. Vasilis Grammatikopoulos has witnessed first-hand the growth and impact of CARDET. His powerful words remind us of how far we’ve come—and how vital our partnerships are in driving meaningful change.

Our collaboration with the International Hellenic University has been grounded in a shared vision for innovative, impactful, and inclusive educational research. Together, we’ve supported the development of young researchers, strengthened communities, and tackled pressing societal challenges.

💙 Thank you to Prof. Grammatikopoulos, Director of the Masters in Digital & Soft Skills in Educational Sciences, for his continued trust and support—and for being part of CARDET’s journey from the very beginning!

Here’s to many more years of visionary collaboration and excellence!

Δωρεά Βιβλίων “Μαθαίνω Ελληνικά”

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Community Actions.

📚 Στο πλαίσιο της καμπάνιας #twenty4twenty του CARDET, για την ενδυνάμωση και στήριξη της κοινότητας, προχωρούμε στη δωρεά εκπαιδευτικών βιβλίων του έργου Μαθαίνω Ελληνικά στους οργανισμούς: CODECA, Κέντρα Εξυπηρέτησης Μεταναστών – Μihub, καθώς και στο φροντιστήριο ΧαραΖΩ Κέντρο Μάθησης.

🔹 Το Πρόγραμμα Εκμάθησης Ελληνικών σε Ανήλικους ΥΤΧ συνεχίζεται δυναμικά για 5η χρονιά, προσφέροντας δωρεάν μαθήματα σε μαθητές και μαθήτριες με μεταναστευτική βιογραφία.

📌 Μέσα από αυτή τη δράση, ενισχύουμε την εκπαίδευση, τη γλωσσική ανάπτυξη και την κοινωνική ένταξη.

Το έργο υλοποιείται στο πλαίσιο του Ταμείου Ασύλου, Μετανάστευσης και Ένταξης με συγχρηματοδότηση από την Ευρωπαϊκή Ένωση και την Κυπριακή Δημοκρατία. Αρ. Έργου: AMIF/S02/2024/5

UxGE: Young Changemakers Present Green Proposals to Local Decision Makers in Strovolos

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

In a key milestone for the United for a Green Europe (UxGE) project, CARDET and the three finalist teams of young participants in the national UxGE competition met on Thursday, 12th of June 2025, with local decision-makers in Strovolos Municipality. The meeting was attended by municipal officers, including the President of the Youth Council of Strovolos Municipality.

The event offered a unique opportunity for the young changemakers to present the proposals they developed as part of the UxGE competition—proposals aimed at promoting a greener, more inclusive, and sustainable Europe. Each team showcased their innovative ideas and engaged in constructive dialogue with the municipal representatives.

More than just a platform to share their visions, the meeting served to empower the youth by allowing them to practice their public speaking and presentation skills, build confidence, and actively participate in discussions on sustainable development at the local level. The presentations delivered by the teams were met with enthusiasm and interest. The young participants confidently responded to questions and received encouraging feedback from the municipal representatives.

This meeting marked a significant achievement not only for the competition but for the broader objectives of the UxGE project. The positive impact of the initiative is already evident in the motivation, creativity, and civic engagement displayed by the young participants. CARDET extends its sincere appreciation to Strovolos Municipality for their support and commitment to fostering youth participation and environmental awareness.

The United for a Green Europe (UxGE) project aims to foster a community of young leaders who are equipped to navigate and address the complexities of the modern world, particularly within the framework of the European Green Pact. By focusing on leadership, critical thinking, sustainability, and environmental awareness, the project seeks to holistically develop youth leaders and key stakeholders. Its goal is to create a robust foundation for both personal and professional growth, cultivating a new generation of young individuals who are not only informed about environmental challenges but also empowered to lead their communities in adopting sustainable practices and shaping effective, forward-looking policies.

Learn more about the UxGE Project here!

Civic Champions: New Report Highlights Threats to Civic Space in Southern Europe

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

A new Comparative Report sheds light on the state of civic space in Southern Europe, focusing on Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus, and Italy. The study, led by CESIE, provides a comprehensive analysis of the political, legal, and societal challenges facing Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in the region.

Through a multidimensional research approach combining desk research and qualitative data collection, the report identifies key threats and attacks targeting civil society actors. It reveals both common trends and country-specific issues, offering valuable insights into the shrinking civic space in Southern Europe.

The findings underscore the growing pressures on civil society, ranging from restrictive legislation and political interference to negative public discourse and limited access to resources. The report aims to support informed advocacy and policy responses by presenting a structured overview of the current landscape and emerging risks.

This comparative analysis serves as a crucial resource for stakeholders seeking to understand and address the complex factors undermining civic engagement and democratic participation across the region.

Read more information about the project, here.

ACT4DYS Engages Stakeholders in Cyprus to Shape Disability-Inclusive Urban Development e-Portfolio

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

On 22 May, 2 June, and 3 June 2025, ACT4DYS project successfully conducted a series of focus groups in Cyprus—one in person and two online—gathering valuable insights from a diverse group of 24 participants, including young people with disabilities, youth workers, and youth. These sessions are part of a broader effort to co-create an interactive e-Portfolio aimed at promoting disability-inclusive urban development across the EU.

The e-Portfolio, currently in development, will highlight over 40 real-world examples of inclusive and accessible practices in urban planning, transport, and public spaces. Designed as a practical and inspirational resource, it is tailored for youth workers, young people with disabilities, and policymakers alike. The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 10 (Reduced Inequalities), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and 13 (Climate Action).

  • During the focus groups, participants engaged in constructive dialogue around key topics, including:
  • Accessible and inclusive transport and sustainable mobility
  • Inclusive public and green spaces
  • Urban planning for social inclusion and climate resilience
  • The role of young people in driving accessible urban development
  • Challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive urban environments
  • Identifying and implementing good practices
  • Youth-led initiatives in urban accessibility and sustainable development

These focus groups provided critical input that will shape the e-Portfolio’s content, ensuring that it responds to real-life needs, challenges, and experiences. The feedback gathered will help ground the tool in practical relevance, ultimately supporting more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable urban planning across Europe.

ACTDYS is an initiative that will aim to transform urban mobility into a more inclusive and accessible experience for young people, with a focus on people with disabilities and people dependent on alternative transportation means. It will raise awareness around the challenges of urban mobility. At the same time the project will encourage and actively involve youth to help fight against climate change and make cities more sustainable and inclusive.

Stay tuned for more information and activities from this exciting new project!

Why Must Cyprus Lead in Sustainable Tourism?

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News. 24 Comments on Why Must Cyprus Lead in Sustainable Tourism?

Cyprus stands at a critical crossroads. Tourism remains the backbone of its economy, but it also places immense pressure on the island’s natural and cultural resources — from water scarcity and coastal erosion to overdevelopment and habitat loss. With the island welcoming nearly four times its population in visitors each year, sustainable tourism is no longer a policy choice — it’s a matter of necessity. That’s why CARDET, through the Upskilling for Sustainable Tourism (UST) project, is equipping local actors with the tools, training, and knowledge to lead a bottom up approach.

A Fragile Balance

Cyprus enjoys a thriving tourism industry built on its beaches and natural landscapes, cultural wealth, and Mediterranean charm. Yet this success comes with mounting challenges: water scarcity, climate change-induced coastal erosion, overdevelopment, and forest fires. These are further intensified by a seasonal, high-impact tourism model, heavily concentrated on the coast during the summer months. Unless Cyprus recalibrates its approach, it risks depleting the very assets that make it a desirable destination.

The recent local governance reform, reducing the number of Municipalities and creating district-level organisations, presents a timely opportunity. However, structural change alone isn’t enough. Real progress demands genuine decentralisation, giving local authorities the resources and autonomy to actively shape and manage sustainable tourism.

Local Leadership: The Missing Piece

Today, according to researchers, most of the Municipalities, for the most part, remain dependent on the Deputy Ministry of Tourism and regional Tourism Development and Promotion Companies (TDPCs) to craft and implement tourism strategies. While programs like The Heartland of Legends, Cyprus Breakfast, and the Cyprus Agrotourism Company are commendable, most Municipalities still lack the capacity due to skills, financial and legal constraints, to lead systemic change.

As a leading research and development centre, CARDET is addressing this gap through the Upskilling for Sustainable Tourism (UST) project — co-funded by the European Union (Project Number: 2022-1-SE01-KA220-VET-000089744). The initiative builds vocational and entrepreneurial skills, promotes community-led tourism, and nurtures a shift toward environmentally and socially responsible practices. By investing in local capacity-building, UST is laying the foundations for long-term, place-based transformation.

Empowering municipalities can be a game-changer. Local councils understand their regions’ unique cultural and environmental assets. From the promotion of natural landscapes through the creation of natural trails, and supporting local producers and communities to embracing circular economy practices, they can define and promote their identity. Small, visible projects can have an outsized impact — guiding tourists, engaging residents, and setting new industry expectations.

Partnerships and Policy: A Unified Vision

But local efforts alone are not enough. Partnerships are essential. Municipalities should collaborate with NGOs, environmental groups, small businesses, and tourism professionals. These stakeholders already offer innovation and community-rooted solutions. What’s often missing is coordination, leadership, and more importantly a unified strategic vision.

Cyprus must also step up its national advocacy. This includes ratifying key sustainability protocols, like the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM), and adopting a cohesive national strategy for sustainable tourism. The island cannot afford fragmented or cosmetic efforts. What’s needed is a long-term, joined-up approach that aligns environmental protection with economic and social resilience.

From Challenge to Competitive Edge

This isn’t just about sustainability, it’s about competitive advantage. Global tourism trends are changing. More travellers seek authentic, low-impact experiences. They want to hike nature trails, taste local wines, and stay in heritage villages. Cyprus is uniquely positioned to meet this demand, if it moves decisively and inclusively.

The roadmap is clear. With initiatives like UST, genuine local empowerment, and strong national commitment, Cyprus has the potential not only to protect its future but to lead the Mediterranean — and beyond — in sustainable tourism.

More information about this forward-looking initiative is available at ustproject.eu.

Marios Demosthenous
Senior Researcher / Sustainability Expert at CARDET