Speech of the Chief Scientist for Research and Innovation of the Republic of Cyprus, Dr. Nikolas Mastroyiannopoulos at the Cyprus Forum | 03 October 2020

Esteemed Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy of the Republic of Cyprus,  

Dear Speakers,  

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

I am privileged to be with you today at the Cyprus Forum to chair the panel discussing the pivotal subject “Developing Entrepreneurs in an Academic Setting” with six distinguished guests. I would like to warmly welcome the speakers and all conference participants, as well as congratulate the organizers. 

Such initiatives especially during this challenging period, are perhaps more important than ever now. Bringing together decision makers, scientists, entrepreneurs and professionals representing pioneering and world-leading organizations from Cyprus and abroad, can facilitate and strengthen the exchange of knowledge and international best practices.  

In fact, bringing the academic research community closer to the market to commercialize research results, facilitating cooperation and the creation of synergies can lead to economic impact. It helps create a brighter and more sustainable future for our country and our citizens.  

Dear Guests,   

Our island is home to world-class academic and research centers, high-quality human capital and dynamic businesses. However, we still need to fully embrace innovation across the board in order to differentiate our economy and become more competitive.  

The government’s priority for a new growth model is clear.  A priority that I deeply aspire to as the Chief Scientist of Research and Innovation of Cyprus and the Chairman of the Research and Innovation Foundation and truly believe in personally. To realize this, we have to transform the most promising research results into innovative products and services.  

In this direction it is essential that all stakeholders collaborate closely to bring the research community together with businesses, to create synergies to the benefit of our scientists and entrepreneurs. Along with the development of a culture of creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, these are the ingredients to ultimately form the basis for a sustainable R&I ecosystem as a key pillar of a new model for growth, ensuring multiple benefits for society.   

I would like to thank you once again and open the discussion of this interesting panel. I am confident that the discussion will be thought–provoking, inspiring and beneficial for everyone.