Cyprus is a beautiful island in the northeastern basin of the Mediterranean Sea, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. Throughout the centuries, Cyprus has been a meeting place of civilizations and cultures. Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean with a population of approximately 700,000. The island has superb mountain scenery, forests, fascinating coastlines and beaches, and a rich historical and archaeological heritage bearing witness to its long and diverse history.

In May 2004, Cyprus joined the European Union and became its easternmost and southernmost outpost. 

Climate 
Cyprus enjoys a wonderful Mediterranean climate with long dry summers from mid May to mid October and abundant sunshine throughout the year. Variations in temperature and rainfall are governed by altitude and, to a lesser extent, distance from the coast. The marvelous climate of the island offers endless opportunities to nature lovers. 

Economy 
In January 2008, Cyprus joined the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) and henceforward the Euro (€) has been the monetary unit in use. 

Language 
The official languages of the Constitution of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken. English is also the language of instruction in the Private Institutions of Tertiary Education for the vast majority of their programmes of study.

Education

The Department of Higher and Tertiary Education (DAAE) aims at the creation of the appropriate conditions for the provision of tertiary education and training in academic and professional programmes of studies to the larger possible number of people. With the reshaping of the economies of almost all countries as a result of globalisation and the rapid development of technology, participation in higher education is now an essential qualification for the personal, economic and social development of individuals, groups and states. Thus, it constitutes the most significant level of education because it is directly linked to employment and contributes significantly to development and social coherence. Higher and Tertiary Education is also directly linked to the European membership of Cyprus since matters such as the recognition of academic qualifications and student and academic staff mobility are dominant among the issues handled by the DAAE.

Higher and Tertiary Education is provided through a wide range of means and methods in public or in private institutions, through full-time, part-time, distance and other forms of attendance. EU intention to promote “Lifelong Learning” has extended the role of Higher and Tertiary Education and created new needs such as the creation of the Open University of Cyprus. At the same time, the state policy for the substantial increase of expenditure on research and the establishment of Cyprus as a regional educational and research centre, creates new prospects for the development of tertiary education and indicates that there are great possibilities for tertiary education to contribute to the economic development of the country.