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Author: Veronica Charalambous

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.

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

DataGame Platform Launches to Strengthen Data Privacy in Education

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

A new e-learning platform, DataGame, has officially launched, offering essential support for Data Protection Officers, adult educators, VET trainers, and other professionals working to ensure data privacy and safety in education.

At the heart of the platform are nine interactive, scenario-based training modules that immerse users in real-life data protection dilemmas often encountered in educational settings. By encouraging users to make decisions and view the outcomes of their choices, the modules foster critical thinking and practical understanding of complex data protection issues.

To support learning and implementation, the platform also features a comprehensive Toolbox with ready-to-use resources, including:

  • Privacy notice templates
  • DPIA checklists
  • Encryption tools
  • Curated educational materials

For trainers and institutions seeking to adopt or adapt the platform, a Technical Manual provides detailed guidance on setting up Moodle, using H5P and Articulate Storyline, and tracking learner progress effectively.

Whether you’re working to protect student data, deliver staff training, or develop institutional policies, DataGame is a timely and practical tool for enhancing data safety and digital literacy in higher education and beyond.

Learn more at: www.datagame-project.eu
Explore the platform directly: datagame.cardetprojects.com

Education, Innovation, and Impact: Dr. Charalambos Vrasidas at the Cyprus Diaspora Forum 2025

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Blog.

CARDET proudly participated as a sponsor of the Cyprus Diaspora Forum 2025, a landmark event that brought together members of the Cypriot diaspora to explore opportunities for collaboration, investment, and cultural exchange. Held in Nicosia, the Forum provided a vibrant platform for dialogue around Cyprus’s future, with a strong focus on education, entrepreneurship, and global partnerships.

A highlight of the event was the interview with Dr. Charalambos Vrasidas, CARDET’s Co-Founder and Executive Director, conducted by renowned journalist George Donikian. Dr. Vrasidas shared insights on the pivotal role of education in empowering communities and fostering innovation. Reflecting on CARDET’s 20-year journey, he emphasized the organisation’s unwavering commitment to creating a world where “people learn and thrive.”

Through this engagement, CARDET reaffirmed its mission to bridge local knowledge with global expertise and support initiatives that promote inclusive growth and lifelong learning. The Forum marked an inspiring milestone for connecting Cypriots worldwide and advancing shared goals for a more resilient and globally engaged Cyprus.

Watch the full interview to hear his insights and vision for the future!

Digital Harmony Project Kicks Off in Valencia to Bridge Generations and Promote Digital Well-Being

Written by Veronica Charalambous on . Posted in Project News.

The Digital Harmony project officially launched on 28 May 2025 in Valencia with a dynamic partner meeting hosted by IFESCOOP. This groundbreaking European initiative aims to foster digital well-being within school communities by facilitating meaningful intergenerational learning between students and older adults.

By bringing together partners from across Europe, Digital Harmony seeks to co-create inclusive digital learning environments that improve digital literacy, encourage responsible online behavior, and prioritise mental health. At the heart of the project lies a vision of connected communities—where generations learn from and support one another in navigating the digital world.

During the kick-off meeting, project partners presented the main work packages, which span project management, research, training development, communication and dissemination, and long-term sustainability planning. The gathering laid the foundation for upcoming activities, including the creation of tailored training materials and the organisation of community-based multiplier events in participating countries.

With a strong focus on youth empowerment, Digital Harmony also recognises the value of older generations’ experience, fostering mutual respect and understanding through shared digital exploration. The project’s mission is clear: bridging generations is a powerful step toward bridging the digital divide—and shaping a safer, healthier, and more inclusive digital future for all.

For more information and updates on the project, follow our journey as we build Digital Harmony across Europe. Further details and the official project website will be shared soon. Stay tuned.