training initiative — Cyprus is set to enhance its workforce with a significant €34 million training initiative, aimed at equipping over 100,000 workers with essential skills. This programme, approved by the Cyprus Human Resources Development Authority (Anad), is scheduled to be launched in the first half of 2026 through various vocational training centres.
The training is designed to address the evolving needs of the workforce, focusing on improving productivity, boosting competitiveness, and enhancing business resilience. It will span all sectors of the economy, covering a broad range of professions.
Training initiative: Targeted Areas of Skill Development
Participants will engage in training that encompasses vital areas such as business management, new technologies, and innovation. Specific attention will also be given to green and blue economy skills, renewable energy, occupational safety and health, and business continuity. A key feature of the training will be the emphasis on digital skills, ranging from basic competencies to advanced fields like artificial intelligence and robotics.
Programmes Designed for Diverse Needs
Anad has structured the training programmes into three main categories to cater to different workforce needs. The first category focuses on regular multi-company training programmes. These are primarily aimed at supporting employers in upgrading their staff’s skills in line with operational needs. Notably, unemployed individuals registered with the public employment service will also have the opportunity to participate, helping facilitate their return to work.
In this category, 3,721 specifications were approved for 3,413 training programmes, which will accommodate approximately 95,000 participants. The total expenditure for these programmes is estimated at €22.9 million.
Specialised Training for Critical Roles
The second category comprises training schemes classified as being of vital importance. These programmes target managerial and scientific personnel, focusing on specialised or innovative subjects deemed priorities for the local economy. They combine institutional training with in-company components, relying on experienced trainers to deliver the content. A total of 251 programmes have been approved in this category, aimed at 7,000 participants, with a funding allocation of €11 million.
Empowering Trade Union Officials
The third category is dedicated to continuing training programmes for trade union officials. These initiatives are intended to empower unions and trade union organisations by enhancing the skills of their officials on topics pertinent to their roles. In total, 56 specifications have been approved for the implementation of 101 programmes, involving around 2,800 participants, with an expenditure of €0.2 million.
Individuals interested in participating in these programmes can submit their applications through the Ermis platform. Applications should be made either before the start of a programme or before a quarter of its total duration has elapsed. Further information is available on Anad’s website, while unemployed individuals are encouraged to contact the public employment service’s employment offices for referrals to join the programmes.
