New Institutions and Programmes for Cultural Development

Creation of a Mansion Of Culture - Following a decision of the Council of Ministers, the creation of a Mansion of Culture is being promoted, which will house the Music Centre and the State Library.

Creation of Cultural Infrastructure - Within this framework, approval has already been given for the subsidization of various cultural centers, libraries, theatres and museums in the government-controlled municipalities of Cyprus, while new cases are examined every six months.

Creation of Main Portal for Cultural Information - The proposal for the creation of a Main Portal for Cultural Information, in association with the University of Cyprus, was approved by the Council of Ministers and its implementation began in September 2000. The culture of Cyprus will be promoted on the internet through the Main Portal. The implementation of the first phase was completed in May 2004.

Establishment of Seats in Various Universities - The Ministry of Education and Culture supports research centers and institutions abroad, which specialize in Greek and Cypriot subject matters. The establishment of seats in various universities abroad was approved by the Council of Ministers following a proposal by the Ministry of Education and Culture.

Annual Honorary Grants - The institution of Annual Honorary Grants for creative artists was approved by the Council of Ministers in 2000.

The EU Programme 'Culture 2000' - Since 2002 Cyprus has been participating in the EU programme “CULTURE 2000”. A number of Cypriot cultural bodies have expressed interest in the programme and have submitted applications. The Ministry of Education and Culture extends guarantees for the provision of financial support to these bodies, in the event of their projects being chosen by the European Committee.

Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO - The Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO operates under the Ministry of Education and Culture and is the competent body for all issues relevant to the objectives of UNESCO. For its operational needs and the promotion of the UNESCO programmes, the Commission is subsidized by the Ministry of Education and Culture.