More than 5,000 attend European Researchers’ Night in Nicosia

Nicosia, Cyprus. More than 5,000 people attended European Researchers’ Night 2026 at the Cyprus State Fair last week, according to the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF). The annual science and innovation event marked 20 years in Cyprus and drew more than 2,000 school pupils through organised visits and activities.

Exhibitions and activities

Held under the theme “CELEBRATE 2.0 – Two Decades of STEAM-Powered Inspiration”, the event brought together researchers, academics, scientists, companies and organisations from across Cyprus’ research and innovation sector.

Visitors explored more than 75 exhibition stands and took part in over 80 interactive activities, including experiments, workshops, simulations, games, quizzes and demonstrations. RIF said the programme emphasised STEAM — science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics — and showed how the disciplines can work together to address practical and societal challenges.

Student competition and anniversary

The programme included the Science Unfold 2026 student science communication competition, held under the theme “STEAMing Through Time! How research and innovation changed our world”. Students presented scientific inventions and applications that have shaped everyday life, explaining them in accessible and engaging ways.

A special anniversary stand traced the event’s development in Cyprus since 2006, while a commemorative video presented highlights from its two decades on the island.

“The science does not concern scientists alone. It concerns society as a whole,” RIF said. It added that the event sought to emphasise curiosity, creativity, collaboration and the role of younger generations in shaping the future of research.

The programme ended with a networking reception bringing members of the public together with researchers and representatives of the innovation community.