KIOS Opportunities

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A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the University of Cyprus (UCY) and the Nicosia District Local Government Organization (NDLGO). The MoU supports the collaboration between the KIOS Research and Innovation Center of Excellence at the University of Cyprus and NDLGO for research and innovation activities to support the green and digital transformation of Nicosia’s water and sewerage systems.

The MoU was signed by the University of Cyprus Rector, Prof. Tasos Christofides, and the President of NDLGO, Mr. Konstantinos Yiorkatzis, on the 29th of June 2026 at the University of Cyprus campus.

The parties will collaborate across a range of areas, including the co-organization of joint scientific conferences and educational events, the provision of advisory services and expertise, and the conduct of joint research activities. In addition, the MoU includes the opportunity for joint participation in research and innovation projects, funded by national and European research programs, the organization of educational and training activities, and the exchange of data and knowledge for research purposes.

During the signing ceremony, the UCY Rector, Prof. Tasos Christofides, said that the collaboration with NDLGO will create a meaningful framework for the exchange of expertise, education, and applied scientific contribution, for the benefit of local government and citizens, while also drawing on the experience already gained through the University’s collaboration with other DLGO.

The President of NDLGO, Mr. Konstantinos Yiorkatzis, underlined the importance of harnessing scientific expertise in areas such as water, the environment, urban planning, and sustainable development, as well as the need to establish a Unified Water Management Authority. In this context, he proposed the formation of a joint working group comprising NDLGO, the University of Cyprus, and KIOS, tasked with examining the legal, technical, and other parameters for the implementation of this initiative. He concluded by expressing his confidence that the collaboration will yield mutual benefits, drawing on new ideas, modern scientific approaches, and innovative solutions, to the benefit of society.

On behalf of the KIOS CoE, the Director, Prof. Christos Panayiotou, said that KIOS pursues research and innovation collaborations with water utilities and local government organizations, which play a decisive role in the management, operation, and security of critical infrastructure, with the aim of improving their operations and ensuring alignment with European Directives. “Local Government Organizations address complex challenges, ranging from leakages and water losses in distribution networks to water-quality and cybersecurity concerns. KIOS has the scientific expertise and know-how to address these challenges, through innovative technologies such as smart water networks”, said Professor Panayiotou.