NICOSIA, Cyprus — The University of Cyprus hosted His Excellency Teeko T. Yorlay, Liberia’s Ambassador to Cyprus, for a high-level meeting with Rector Professor Tasos Christofides. The discussions focused on advancing academic cooperation and expanding student mobility between Liberia and Cyprus.
The meeting, held in the Rector’s Office at the University House “Anastasios G. Leventis” in Aglantzia, followed Yorlay’s presentation of his Letters of Credence to the President of the Republic of Cyprus. Ambassador Yorlay led talks on establishing institutional partnerships between the University of Cyprus and Liberian higher education institutions, with an emphasis on academic exchanges, joint learning opportunities, and structured pathways for Liberian students to pursue higher education in Cyprus.
Professor Christofides welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration and broadening access to quality education. He highlighted the potential for Liberian students to be admitted into undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Cyprus, signaling a shared interest in expanding access to higher learning.
A central feature of the discussions was the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Cyprus and Liberian universities, including the University of Liberia. The dialogue also referenced the university’s existing international partnerships, noting collaborations with institutions such as the University of Cairo, Alexandria University, and universities in South Africa and Tanzania as models for further cooperation.
Ambassador Yorlay urged the prompt preparation of a draft MoU. In response, Ms. Elena Avgoustidou-Kyriacou, Director of the International Relations Service, committed to preparing a draft agreement and to presenting an overview of the University’s academic programs and opportunities to illuminate potential areas of collaboration.
“The University of Cyprus values international partnerships that promote academic excellence, cultural exchange, and opportunities for students,” Professor Christofides stated. “We look forward to exploring areas of cooperation of mutual interest.”
The meeting followed preliminary engagement with the University’s International Relations Office and represents 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 Liberian Embassy in Cyprus.
As the two institutions explore concrete steps—ranging from joint programs to student exchanges—the partnership could open new avenues for Libyan (Liberian) scholars and professionals to study, train, and conduct research in Cyprus, contributing to Liberia’s broader educational development.
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