The Holy Archdiocese of Cyprus has issued a strong rebuttal to recent claims that Archbishop Georgios faces a conflict of interest by serving on the council of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA) campus in Cyprus while providing Church-owned buildings.
The statement responds to an open letter by emeritus professor and former Education Minister Andreas Demetriou, who expressed concern that the Archbishop’s dual role could undermine Cypriot public institutions.
Church: “We act with gratitude, not personal interest”
The Archdiocese stressed that it does not focus on individuals or titles but acts with gratitude for the decades-long contribution of EKPA and other Greek universities to Cypriot Hellenism.
It underlined the Church’s historic and ongoing role as the cornerstone of Cypriot education, especially during difficult periods of foreign rule, and reaffirmed its active support for higher education today.
No eviction of Cypriot institutions
The Archdiocese categorically denied allegations that Church buildings currently used by Cypriot public institutions are being “evicted.” It clarified that all agreements include early termination clauses with proper notice – a standard contractual practice the Church fully respects.
Furthermore, the Holy Monastery of Kykkos has recently decided to offer the historic and spacious premises of the Apostolic School to house the Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Arts.
“Education is everyone’s responsibility”
The statement concluded:
“The Church of Cyprus remains firmly beside the educational community, showing deep empathy for the needs of our youth and their right to equal access to education. Education is a shared responsibility that demands unity, seriousness, and dedication.”
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