Marked by moving moments and meaningful tributes, the Anniversary Event celebrating Frederick’s 60 years of contribution to education in Cyprus took place on 18 February. The anniversary celebration was held at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre before a packed audience.

The event was held in the presence of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, members of the Council of Ministers and the House of Representatives, representatives of political parties, the leadership of the Law Office of the Republic, current and former members of the Judiciary and the Court of Justice of the European Union, as well as independent institutional commissioners. The event was also honoured by the presence of ambassadors, the Mayor of Nicosia and representatives of local authorities, Rectors of Cypriot universities, members of the Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters and Arts, distinguished guests, members of the academic, research and student community of Frederick University, and alumni of Frederick University, Frederick Institute of Technology and all preceding Frederick educational institutions.

Among the event’s highlights was the announcement of the development of the first Medical School in Limassol, following an agreement with the University of Manchester, one of the most prestigious institutions in medical education.

The President of the Republic congratulated Frederick University on its collaboration with the University of Manchester, describing it as “a vote of confidence in our country.” In his address, President Christodoulides stated: “I would like to warmly congratulate you on your long and remarkable journey, which, among many other contributions, has had a positive impact and brought benefits to Cyprus. The continuous pursuit of excellence, outward orientation and strategic partnerships developed by Frederick University, together with its valuable contribution to the sciences, letters and the arts, have rightfully established it as an institution of high standing,” the President noted. He further emphasised that “pioneering innovation, combined with a deeply rooted sense of social responsibility, positions Frederick University as a model academic institution with a strong footprint both locally and internationally.”

The President also referred to the University’s commitment to strengthening research and skills development, highlighting that “Frederick University is the first in Cyprus to fully recognise the need to connect education with the labour market.” Frederick University honoured the President of the Republic for his institutional support of education in Cyprus and presented him with an original artwork by Georgia Michael, a graduate of the Department of Arts and Communication, who documented and illustrated the experiences of women and girls who lived through the 1974 Turkish invasion as part of her dissertation.

In her speech, the President of the Council of Frederick University, Ms Natassa Frederickou, highlighted the enduring values that define the Organisation as well as its human-centred character. “Today, we can feel deep gratitude for the people who believed, for the people who dared, for the people who built what we are. Even more importantly, we can look ahead with responsibility- for what we are called to create from this point forward.” Ms Frederickou stressed that education is an act of faith in people and in the power of knowledge to make the world better. She referred to initiatives and fields where the University has been pioneering and to areas where it continues to innovate. Particular emphasis was placed on Frederick University’s strategic orientation towards sustainable development. Referring to the establishment of the Medical School following a special agreement with the University of Manchester, Ms Frederickou stated that “this is a landmark collaboration for Frederick University and for the development of medical education in Cyprus- a partnership based on a shared long-term vision to strengthen medical education, research and healthcare across the wider region.”

Prior to the official addresses, in an atmosphere of deep emotion, the documentary entitled “Our history is the story of our people” was screened. Through personal narratives of academics, administrative staff and alumni, Frederick’s historical journey unfolded- a path defined by vision, challenges, perseverance and significant collective achievements. Testimonies, accompanied by rare archival material and milestone moments from the institution’s history, highlighted not only its development but above all the human imprint behind every step forward. The audience was deeply moved as past and present generations recognised parts of their own stories in what was shared. The documentary served as a mirror of collective memory and pride, reminding attendees that Frederick’s journey is inseparably linked to its people, their dreams, values and enduring belief in the power of education.

A particularly memorable moment was the speech by student Lorenzo English, who shared his experience studying at Frederick University. “At Frederick University I was given opportunity, support and trust. For me, Frederick’s 60 years are not simply an anniversary but a celebration of 60 years of a place that creates opportunities for human development” said Lorenzo, who, after graduating with distinction from the undergraduate programme in Physical Education and Sport Science and the Master’s programme in Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, is now a doctoral candidate in Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences. Having secured €150,000 in funding from the Research and Innovation Foundation following a highly competitive scientific evaluation process, Lorenzo is investigating the neurological mechanisms of pain. “Success for me now is being able, through my research, to significantly improve people’s lives.”

Special significance and symbolism were attached to the University’s honorary distinctions and awards, presented to individuals who contributed to the creation and evolution of the Organisation. The rationale for the awards was presented by the Rector of Frederick University and Chair of the Special Committee on Honorary Distinctions, Professor George Demosthenous.

An Honorary Distinction for her contribution to quality assurance in higher education and the promotion of equality in education was awarded to Professor Mary Koutselini. Warm applause was received by Despo Frederickou, who was honoured for her historic contribution and foundational role in the Organisation, while members of the University’s academic and administrative staff were recognised for more than 30 years of service. The Award for Scientific Innovation and Historical Continuity was presented to the founders, mentors and team leaders of Frederick University’s Formula Student teams.

The event concluded with a musical programme dedicated to classic Greek songs, inspired by the musical legacy of Radio Frederick.