Nicosia, Cyprus — The University of Cyprus has opened talks with Liberia aimed at advancing higher education cooperation, following a high-level meeting between Liberia’s Ambassador to Cyprus, His Excellency Teeko T. Yorlay, and the University’s Rector, Professor Tasos Christofides.
The meeting, held at the Rector’s Office in the University House “Anastasios G. Leventis” in Aglantzia, focused on prospects for academic collaboration, student mobility, and institutional partnerships between the University of Cyprus and Liberian universities.
Fresh from presenting his Letters of Credence to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Ambassador Yorlay initiated discussions on establishing formal cooperation frameworks that would allow qualified Liberian students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Cyprus.
Professor Christofides welcomed the initiative, reaffirming the University of Cyprus’ commitment to expanding international partnerships and enhancing access to quality higher education. He noted the institution’s openness to admitting students from Africa, particularly Liberia, into its academic programmes.
The Ambassador further proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Cyprus and the University of Liberia, as well as other higher education institutions in Liberia. In response, Professor Christofides highlighted the University’s existing international collaborations, including partnerships with the University of Cairo, Alexandria University, and universities in South Africa and Tanzania.
Ambassador Yorlay requested the swift preparation of a draft MoU. Ms. Elena Avgoustidou-Kyriacou, Director of the International Relations Service, committed to providing a draft agreement along with a detailed presentation of the University’s academic offerings and opportunities.
“The University of Cyprus values international partnerships that promote academic excellence, cultural exchange, and opportunities for students,” Professor Christofides said. “We look forward to exploring areas of cooperation of mutual interest.”
The engagement followed preliminary consultations with the University’s International Relations Office and marks an initial step toward strengthening educational ties between Cyprus and Liberia. Ambassador Yorlay was accompanied by Mr. Aaron T. Guanue, First Secretary and Consul at the Embassy of Liberia.
