University of Cyprus holds elections for new rectoral leadership

The University of Cyprus is holding elections today, October 7, 2026, to determine its leadership for the next four-year term. A total of 486 eligible voters, including 348 academic staff, 117 student representatives, and 21 administrative personnel, are participating in the process to select a new rector and two vice-rectors. This is the first time five candidates are competing for the rector position, marking a departure from previous years.

The five candidates running for rector are Eleni-Tatiani Synodinou, Ioannis Yiapintzakis, Marina Neophytou, Fofi Constantinidou, and Sofronis Clerides. Voting for the rector takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with results expected by 1:30 p.m. Additionally, Antonis Ellinas and Marios Dikeakos are vying for the position of Vice-Rector of International Relations, Finance and Administration, while Georgia Panayiotou is the sole candidate for Vice-Rector of Academic Affairs, requiring 50% plus one vote to be elected. Voting for the vice-rector positions is scheduled to take place from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

This election follows the conclusion of the second term of current rector Tasos Christofides, who is ineligible for re-election and will step down in December 2026. The new leadership will face various institutional challenges, including concerns regarding facility accessibility and student needs.