University of Cyprus faces scrutiny over lack of housing for disabled students

In October 2026, the University of Cyprus faced public criticism following a mother's complaint that the institution failed to provide accessible housing for her daughter, a student with severe mobility impairments. The student, who uses a wheelchair and requires a personal care assistant, was denied the request to live on campus alongside her mother, despite initial guidance suggesting such arrangements might be possible.

Correspondence obtained by SigmaLive reveals that the issue of insufficient infrastructure for students requiring continuous care had been formally raised with the university administration as early as August 2026. On August 31, 2026, the Cyprus Paraplegic Organization (OPAK) contacted then-Rector Tasos Christofides, highlighting a critical shortage of double rooms suitable for disabled students. In a reply dated September 2, 2026, Christofides acknowledged the systemic gap in available university infrastructure.

While the administration recognized the lack of facilities, the student remains without a housing solution that meets her specific needs. The ongoing dispute highlights wider concerns regarding accessibility and the inclusion of students with severe disabilities within the university's residential system.