Private universities in Cyprus are at odds with the government over a new education plan allowing state-owned land to be allocated to foreign universities. The private institutions fear unfair competition and potential dismantling of the local higher education sector due to the advantages foreign entities may receive.
Why are private universities in Cyprus opposing the government’s new education plan?
Private universities in Cyprus oppose the government’s new education plan because it allows state-owned land to be allocated to foreign universities, creating unfair competition. They argue this could dismantle the local higher education sector by providing foreign entities with state-subsidized advantages, despite local universities’ significant self-funded investments.
The Dispute Over State-Owned Land
Private universities in Cyprus are gearing up for a confrontation with the government concerning its recent policy decision. At the core of the issue is the government’s plan to allocate state-owned land to foreign universities, enabling them to establish and operate in Cyprus. Representatives of the private institutions are staunch in their opposition, foreseeing a scenario where unfair competition is fostered, as they view the government’s move akin to subsidizing foreign entities. Such an advantage, they argue, could lead to the dissection of the Cypriot higher education sector, piece by piece, a process they’ve termed “salami slicing.”
The private universities are not swayed by the fact that the government has allowed for local universities to benefit from the land allocation. They highlight that they’ve made substantial investments amounting to “millions” of euros without any state assistance. With this backdrop, it’s expected that these universities will soon approach various ministries and government departments, as legislation related to the policy is on the horizon for parliamentary discussion.
Government’s Vision for Education and Investment
Despite the pushback, the Cypriot government maintains a different perspective, viewing the education sector as a potential “growing pillar” for attracting investment and fostering business activity on the island, which could ultimately bolster the economy. The contentious policy follows an earlier decision permitting foreign universities to establish campuses in Cyprus. However, the proposed amendment to the existing law is distinct, as it would allow these foreign institutions to independently operate on the island and award their own country-specific degrees.
Previously, foreign universities like the University of Central Lancashire (UcLan) in Pyla and the American University of Beirut in Paphos have offered degrees in collaboration with or as dual degree programs from their main campuses. The degrees conferred to graduates have been considered Cypriot. The upcoming legislative change is seen as a significant shift, heralded by a spokesperson for the Cyprus Agency of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education (Dipae) as a “game changer,” particularly for British universities, which may find establishing campuses post-Brexit increasingly challenging.
Ministerial Support and Legislative Controversy
Athena Michaelidou, the Education Minister of Cyprus, has openly praised the plan, suggesting that it aligns with the government’s broader objective to enhance and internationalize the quality of higher education within Cyprus. Michaelidou underscored that the amendment modernizes the legislation and promotes educational quality.
Nonetheless, the proposal has not been without its detractors. During a House education committee meeting, concerns were voiced by Diko MP Chrysanthos Savvides, who noted the absence of consultation with stakeholder groups. He also pointed out that other EU member states have more stringent regulations for the operation of foreign university branches. Akel MP Christos Christofides criticized the ministry’s proposal as “poorly prepared” and fears it could have adverse effects on the Cypriot higher education landscape.
Why are private universities in Cyprus opposing the government’s new education plan?
Private universities in Cyprus oppose the government’s new education plan because it allows state-owned land to be allocated to foreign universities, creating unfair competition. They argue this could dismantle the local higher education sector by providing foreign entities with state-subsidized advantages, despite local universities’ significant self-funded investments.
What is the core issue surrounding the dispute over state-owned land?
The core issue of the dispute between private universities in Cyprus and the government is the plan to allocate state-owned land to foreign universities. Private institutions fear unfair competition, as they believe this move provides foreign entities with subsidized advantages that could ultimately destabilize the local higher education sector.
What is the government’s vision behind the controversial education plan?
The Cypriot government views the controversial education plan as a means to attract investment and stimulate business activity on the island through the education sector. The plan allows foreign universities to independently operate in Cyprus and award their own country-specific degrees, potentially enhancing the quality of higher education and benefiting the economy.
How has the education minister and lawmakers responded to the proposed legislation?
Education Minister Athena Michaelidou has expressed support for the proposed legislation, stating that it aligns with the government’s goal to improve and internationalize higher education quality in Cyprus. However, lawmakers have raised concerns about the lack of consultation with stakeholders and the potential negative impact on the local higher education landscape.
