First medical students in Cyprus to be enrolled in 2013

The issue of the establishment of the Faculty of Medicine was discussed this morning in a meeting at the Ministry of Health, with the participation of Minister of Health Stavros Malas, Minister of Education Giorgos Demosthenous and University of Cyprus Rector Constantinos Christofides, and other officials.

In statements to the Press following the meeting, Malas noted that the goal of establishing a Faculty of Medicine in Cyprus has been declared by the government and added that he is working along with the Minister of Education towards this goal.

Moreover, the Minister said that he discussed with all participants in the meeting the issue concerning the legislation amendment that is necessary in order to allow the Faculty to function. Malas said the academic staff of the Medical School will be employed by the University in 2012.

Demosthenous expressed optimism regarding the tabling of the amending legislation for the establishment and operation of the Faculty, adding that this will happen soon. He also said that the specifications concerning the qualification of the academic staff have been already set, adding also that the first faculty members are expected to be recruited in 2012.

In his statements, Christofides said he was glad that the University of Cyprus was continuing its progress amidst difficult financial times, while the Professor of Interventional Radiology at the University of London Andy Adam noted that the School’s contribution to the society is expected to be great.