The University of Cyprus celebrated winning first place
Guest article by Christina, dorm coordinator (University of Cyprus)
On the 26th of October 2016, the University of Cyprus proudly celebrated winning the first place in energy savings amongst all Universities taking part in SAVES, for the academic year 2015/16. The event took place at the Student Halls, and all residents and University personnel, were invited.
During the event, speeches were delivered by the Rector of the University Dr. Constantinos Christofides, and the Commissioner for the Environment Protection in Cyprus Ms. Ioanna Panayiotou. Both the Rector and the Commissioner congratulated the students and encouraged them to continue their efforts towards sustainability and energy savings.
Ms. Panayiotou stated “I’m often being asked if Cyprus is able to take action in order to protect the environment. The 208 students living at the Resident Halls, taking part in the SAVES program, and winning the first place, is proof that Yes, Cyprus is able to do so”.
Ms. Marianna Pagkratidou a student resident who was accommodated in the winning building during 2015/16, delivered a speech on behalf of the students. She specifically quoted her previous statement when she first found out that they won, that is: “To win is great. To win as a part of a team, is even greater! However, to win when the greatest beneficiary is the environment, well, that is a victory beyond words.”
In addition, during the event, the Rector and the Commissioner for the Environment Protection revealed a commemorative sign that is currently placed at the Residents Common Place Center.
Following the event, the University of Cyprus got lots of media coverage featuring the event and the SAVES program. A press release hit the local newspapers, while Mr. Costas Charalambous Country Manager of the project, with MS. Maria Leonidou, Ambassador of the Program were interviewed at a TV show produced by the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation!
You may view the show following this link:
http://82.102.78.226/Ucy/20161108144610_RIK1_UCY_COSTAS_CHARALAMBOUS.wmv
In Cyprus, we are very proud that all our hard work made a difference. Winning the first place make us more eager to promote more energy savings and protecting the environment. After all, “Yes, Cyprus is able to do so”.
