On paper, a mobility is defined as a movement to study or work abroad but every Erasmus+ graduate will confirm that it’s so much more to it than that. Students and educators get to roll their sleeves up and immerse themselves in their area of interest whilst uncovering the essence of a foreign place. Choosing the right destination is crucial to a successful mobility and Cyprus is a location that could nail your project on its head! Looking at Cyprus from an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme point of view, you will find the following advantages that arguably, make the island a ‘super mobility’:
It is a tiny island, but Cyprus is also home to a huge reservoir of educated people. According to the Republic’s Statistical Service CyStat, Cyprus has the most graduates of higher education per capita in the European Union and 58.2% of people aged 30-34 are holders of a higher education qualification (CyStat, 2020). This means that every sector is supported by highly qualified individuals with research and expertise under their belt. Whatever your sector of interest, there are professionals on standby to assist in workshops, presentations and work experience schemes. There are also thirty universities in the four cities and towns of the Republic of Cyprus and the majority of them offer courses fully taught in English.
Speaking of English, you won’t struggle too much with the local language. As a former British colony, Cypriots are able to welcome visitors with few language barriers. In fact, Cyprus is among the few European countries that boast three official languages: English, Greek and Turkish. Around 73% of the population are able to speak English and the overall fluency of the people is considerably higher than most of its Mediterranean counterparts (Eurobarometer report, 2012). This makes Cyprus a happy medium for multinational groups searching for effective communication with their counterparts.
Cyprus is also incredibly safe as a host country for young people. It is among the safest countries in the European Union and the fifth safest country in the world (Insurly, 2020). Studies on the level of crime confirm that Cyprus has a relatively marginal level of violent crime in comparison to other European destinations. Every corner of the island has a strong sense of community and brotherhood; most locals belong to extended families and enjoy wide networks of friends and acquaintances. For visiting students and educators, this means being introduced to countless new faces and getting swift access to help and assist when needed. Teachers can feel assured that their students are developing their skills and enjoying themselves in a safe and comfortable environment.
The label of ‘sea and sun’ has been attached to Cyprus forever but the last decade has seen the island acquiring a new and rather different reputation. Leading local experts have responded wholeheartedly to the digital revolution and transformed their homeland into a hub of innovation. This runs in parallel to Cyprus’ thriving start-up ecosystem as countless teams are springing up and exploring niche skills and services. These novel projects are attracting investors and enthusiasts the world over, making Cyprus an important contributor to future business trends.
Cyprus is just as cosmopolitan as any dynamic metropolis. For centuries, the political situation has been turbulent however its recent history has brought greater stability and with it, a wonderful diversity of cultures. Its strategic location as a crossroads between three continents means that it continues to attract residents and visitors of all nationalities. It takes pride in its longstanding traditions but is also incredibly tolerant and welcoming of new practices and customs. Thanks to its composition of Turkish-speaking and Greek-speaking population, visitors gain insight into the unique interaction of religions and languages in the community.
Bad weather is a common annoyance for many Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme projects. Having a busy day of activities disrupted by torrential rain is a coordinator’s worst nightmare. Thankfully in Cyprus, sunshine is pretty much constant with around 320 days a year blessed with rays! For a number of years, we have welcomed partner schools in February and been able to witness the snow-capped peaks of the Troodos mountains in the morning and then swimming on the coast by the afternoon!
Travelling from one side of the island to the other only takes just a few hours. These short distances ensure that Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme programmes can be fulfilled with ease and with minimal risk. It’s crucial for students and educators to complete all the tasks outlined in their Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme project and get the most out of the Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme mobility. Being in Cyprus brings the opportunity for participants to enjoy a full and comprehensive schedule of activities. Thanks to the climate, visitors can take part in a wide range of fun activities, from rock-climbing to cycling to stand-up paddling, without the long coach rides!
Tourism is at the heart of the economy and society, so Cyprus is no stranger to welcoming and entertaining visitors. This means that every Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme visit is packed with countless things to do and see. Culture fanatics are spoilt for choice with the island’s UNESCO-protected sites, internationally-renowned art galleries and ornate churches and mosques. The beaches are as breathtaking as is the lush countryside, citrus trees line the streets and vineyards adorn the hilltops. Visitors are pampered in award-winning hotels and the restaurants whip up the most delicious of Cypriot traditions: the ‘meze’, a collection of twenty or more small plates of lip-smacking recipes! Find out how you can Combine Your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme Internship with your Vacation on our blog.
Our school’s previous Erasmus+ programmes have confirmed that local families LOVE to host students and teachers from abroad. The people of Cyprus take pride in their cuisine, their culture and their homes. The response of parents and students to our Erasmus+ partners has always been overwhelming and heart-warming. Staying with a Cypriot family, you’ll be served with a good helping of our daily traditions and the cherry on the top? Warm smiles and big hugs with every hello and goodbye!
You can see Cypress has everything to offer for Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme participants that are eager to spend their Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme internship in a country where the sunshine is pretty much a given. This type of mobility will be a unique experience. You’ll spend your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme mobility on an island. See also more possibilities on our blog “The most beautiful islands in Europe” and you’ll soon realise that paradise is just around the corner!
If you need assistance with your Erasmus+ application our Step-by-Step Instruction for Your Erasmus + Application as well as our Handbook might be a useful tool to write a successful Erasmus+ application.