Frederick University and Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sets the framework for a bilateral collaboration between the two organizations. The MoU was signed online by the Rector of Frederick University, Professor George Demosthenous, and the Chief Executive Officer of CMMI, Mr. Zacharias Siokouros.

The signed MoU promotes the development and exchange of ideas, know-how and best practices in the marine and maritime science and technology areas which include among other, big data, robotics, human element, cultural heritage, digitalization and decarbonization in shipping. Furthermore, it enables both organizations to undertake joint activities in the marine and maritime sectors and in the fields of education and training, while it also fosters participation of their research and academic staff in joint research and innovation projects.

Professor George Demosthenous, Rector of Frederick University, said in a statement: “Frederick University has developed extensive experience and diverse expertise in the marine and maritime sectors, through its academic and research activities but also through its participation in EU-CONEXUS, a transnational universities’ alliance focused on smart urban coastal sustainability. Apart from our undergraduate program in Maritime Studies which is leading higher education in the field in Cyprus, we also offer innovative postgraduate programs in Marine Engineering, Maritime Law, International Trade and Shipping Management. In addition, Frederick University is the only University in Cyprus with experience in distance learning on maritime issues. We consider every potential collaboration in the marine and maritime sectors, in technological development and innovation an opportunity to widen our horizons and offer to the society, the economy and the environment. By joining forces with CMMI, our academic community will be able to further contribute to marine and maritime research through an interdisciplinary approach in ways that will be substantial, constructive and beneficial for both parties. I am positive that our collaboration will be fruitful”.

Natassa Frederickou, President of the Council of Frederick University, welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the two organizations which “share a common vision and common actions and can therefore join forces towards a fruitful exchange of ideas and expertise”, also mentioning the School of Engineering of Frederick University, the largest in Cyprus, and the Department of Maritime, Transport and Commerce, which was the first department of higher education in Cyprus dedicated to these areas.

While Mr. Zacharias Siokouros stated: “We strongly believe that the exchange of know-how and the joint participation in research and innovation programs with the Frederick University will harvest tangible results with respect to the major challenges of the maritime industry which include digital transformation, decarbonization, the gradual transition to autonomous ships, as well as emerging opportunities in the fields of education and training”.