Damianou calls for youth role in Cyprus technology decisions
Deputy Minister Nicodemos Damianou told students in Larnaca that young people must help shape digital policies affecting jobs, education and online safety.
Larnaca, Cyprus. Young people must be included in decisions on technology that will shape their jobs, education and online safety, Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nicodemos Damianou said during an open discussion.
Damianou met students at UCLan Cyprus as part of the 20th National Session of the European Youth Parliament Cyprus.
Discussion with students
The discussion covered the digitalisation of the state, employment opportunities in technology and innovation, and the protection of minors online.
“As much as young people want to listen to me, I also want to listen to them,” Damianou said, acknowledging that policymakers sometimes unintentionally leave younger people out of discussions that directly concern them.
He said technology, digitalisation and innovation were no longer subjects confined to specialists, but had become part of everyday life and the country’s economic future.
Digital transition assessment
The discussion followed a new EU assessment which found that Cyprus has built a strong foundation for its digital transition, supported by extensive gigabit connectivity and full 5G coverage.
Around three quarters of Cypriot small and medium-sized businesses have reached at least a basic level of digital readiness, while companies are making relatively strong use of cloud services and data analytics.
However, the European Commission warned that artificial intelligence adoption remains slow, potentially affecting business competitiveness. It also said digital skills continue to vary considerably according to age and education.
National roadmap
Cyprus’ national digital roadmap includes 62 measures backed by €980 million, covering infrastructure, public services, business transformation and digital skills.
The Commission said the country’s share of ICT specialists in employment is around the EU average, although further action is needed to ensure more people can benefit from the transition.
The challenge is particularly important for young people entering the labour market.
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