The European Researchers’ Night held on Friday in Nicosia under the theme “Mission Possible” offered a unique experience of research and innovation to thousands of visitors, a press relase said. Organized by the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), the event took place at the State Fair, drawing attendees of all ages with interactive activities and scientific experiments.
The event, now in its 18th year in Cyprus, took place under the auspices of President Nikos Christodoulides. It featured hundreds of researchers, entrepreneurs, and students from universities, research institutions, centers of excellence, and innovative companies across the country. According to the RIF press release, distinguished participants in scientific competitions were also awarded during the event.
From 8 in the morning until 10 in the evening, visitors explored more than 60 booths at the State Fair, where they witnessed cutting-edge technology experiments, used specialized scientific equipment, and engaged in a variety
of activities, including entertaining demonstrations. Notably, over 3,000 students attended the event.
A highlight of the event was the award ceremonies for students who excelled in competitions like the RIF’s ebook and Science Unfold contests. A new competition, the “Design Thinking Challenge,” targeting students aged 16+ and university students, made its debut. Additionally, the top booth of the night, titled “Swimming in the Genetic Pool of Cypriots with Zebrafish!” by the BIOBANK.CY Center of Excellence, took first place.
In his speech at the awards ceremony, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Nikodemos Damianou, emphasized the importance of bringing science closer to the public. “This night is a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation to discover the beauty of knowledge and to understand that science is not something distant or abstract, but part of our everyday lives,” he said.
Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology of the Republic of Cyprus and C
hairman of the RIF Board, Demetris Skourides, noted that the event builds bridges between the country’s innovative minds and the general public, showcasing the role and contributions of Cyprus’s scientists.
The European Researchers’ Night takes place simultaneously in more than 400 cities across Europe and is an initiative of the European Commission. It aims to showcase the impact of science on citizens’ daily lives through creative and entertaining approaches. This year’s event was part of the EU-funded project “MISSION POSSIBLE: RESEARCHERS ON BOARD FOR AN INCLUSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE FUTURE,” under the Horizon Europe Program for Research and Innovation 2021-2027.
The event’s media sponsors included DIAS Group, Sigma TV, and the Cyprus News Agency.
Source: Cyprus News Agency