University of Cyprus Welcomes Ambassador Yorlay to Advance Higher Education Cooperation

By: Keith Morrison | Contributing Writer

Nicosia, Cyprus |Feb. 11, 2026| The University of Cyprus welcomed the Ambassador of the Republic of Liberia to Cyprus, His Excellency Teeko T. Yorlay, for a high-level meeting with the Rector, Professor Tasos Christofides, to discuss prospects for academic cooperation and student mobility between the two countries. The meeting took place at the Rector’s Office in the University House “Anastasios G. Leventis” in Aglantzia, Nicosia.

Following the presentation of his Letters of Credence to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Ambassador Yorlay initiated discussions on establishing institutional partnerships between the University of Cyprus and higher education institutions in Liberia. The talks focused on academic exchange, learning opportunities, and structured pathways that would enable qualified Liberian students to pursue higher education in Cyprus.

Professor Christofides welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to strengthening international collaboration and broadening access to quality higher education. He noted the possibility of admitting students from Africa—particularly from Liberia—into undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

The Ambassador also proposed the development of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Cyprus and the University of Liberia, as well as other Liberian universities. In this context, Professor Christofides referred to the University’s existing international partnerships, including collaborations with the University of Cairo, Alexandria University, and universities in South Africa and Tanzania.

Ambassador Yorlay requested the prompt preparation of a draft MoU. Ms. Elena Avgoustidou-Kyriacou, Director of the International Relations Service, undertook to provide a draft agreement together with a presentation outlining the University’s academic programmes and opportunities.

Professor Christofides stated: “The University of Cyprus values international partnerships that promote academic excellence, cultural exchange, and opportunities for students. We look forward to exploring areas of cooperation of mutual interest.”

The meeting followed preliminary engagement with the University’s International Relations Office and represents an initial step toward strengthening educational ties between Cyprus and Liberia. The Ambassador was accompanied by Mr. Aaron T. Guanue, First Secretary and Consul at the Embassy of Liberia.