Gender equality: New Erasmus+ Project Launches in Cyprus
The Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics (CING) is coordinating a pivotal European Erasmus+ project aimed at promoting gender equality in studies related to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Titled “pICTureURpath – Promoting gender equality in ICT studies and careers”, this initiative is co-funded by the European Union under the ERASMUS-EDU-2024-POL-EXP programme.
Funding and Project Duration
The project boasts a substantial budget of €979,281.01, with CING receiving €361,479.38 in direct funding. It officially commenced on April 1, 2025, and is set to run for three years. This collaborative effort brings together six partners from various countries, including CING and Be an Ally Foundation from Cyprus, Challedu and the Directorate of Secondary Education of Western Thessaloniki from Greece, Quality Culture from Italy, and the University of Groningen from the Netherlands.
Objectives Aimed at Empowering Girls
The core aim of pICTureURpath is to identify the primary factors influencing girls’ aspirations to study or pursue careers in ICT across Europe. Through rigorous research, the project seeks to develop an educational framework tailored for teachers, alongside a pilot intervention to be implemented in schools and other educational settings.
Ultimately, the project will generate evidence-based policy proposals aimed at enhancing girls’ participation in ICT-related studies and professions. Dr Margarita Zachariou, Associate Scientist at CING’s Bioinformatics Department, is leading the initiative with the support of departmental members and the Institute’s Education Office.
Highlighting the Importance of Digital Skills
In her comments, Dr Zachariou emphasised the significance of digital skills in contemporary research and innovation. She stated, “Bioinformatics demonstrates the crucial role of digital skills in modern research and innovation.” By integrating computer science and data analysis, vital discoveries in biology and health can occur, underscoring the necessity of bolstering women’s involvement in ICT to fully harness their talent.
“Promoting gender equality in ICT is of vital importance, as women remain underrepresented in studies and careers in the field,” she added. Through pICTureURpath, the team aims to identify and highlight the factors influencing girls’ study and career choices, ultimately formulating policy proposals that will significantly enhance their presence in these sectors.
Kick-off Meeting Sets the Stage
The project’s kick-off meeting was held in Athens on June 26–27, 2025, where all partners and collaborators convened. During this gathering, clear roles and expectations were established to achieve the project’s objectives and ensure effective communication among all parties involved.
Upcoming Event to Encourage Participation
An international online event entitled “From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Empowering Girls in ICT” is scheduled for September 25, 2025, at 15:00. This event aims to explore various strategies to encourage more girls to pursue studies and careers in ICT. Experts from the education, technology, and policy sectors will share their experiences, best practices, and potential solutions to remove obstacles and create new opportunities for the next generation in the digital realm.
Further details regarding the pICTureURpath project and an invitation to the open event can be accessed at pictureurpath.eu or by contacting project manager Ms Katerina Michael at [email protected].
