Press Releases

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to Cyprus and to the European Conference on Educational Research (ECER). 

Academic conferences provide a unique avenue for sharing research discoveries, receiving feedback, and networking with colleagues involved in similar academic subjects and research areas. It goes without saying that participation in such events presents a valuable chance to share new ideas by presenting them to a varied audience of engaged scholars capable of challenging viewpoints and providing constructive feedback. This critical evaluation can enhance research methodologies, substantiate knowledge claims, and consequently strengthen the calibre and credibility of research outcomes. 

I am confident that the benefits of participating in academic conferences such as the ECER will be evident throughout these days. This conference is renowned for its academic excellence and rigor. It attracts more than 3000 scholars from around the globe and we are very honoured that Cyprus is hosting this highly influential event, through the University of Cyprus. 

The theme of the conference this year is “Education in an Age of Uncertainty: Memory and Hope for the Future”. This resonates well with our times and is more relevant than ever. We live in an era marked by rapid transformations and unpredictability; hence, the role of education has never been more critical. Education holds a vital role in helping us navigate through this era by offering a bridge connecting our past with a future full of possibilities. 

The theme of the conference invites reflection on the dual forces of memory and hope. Memory as we draw lessons from our collective past to navigate the present complexities in the world, and hope as we seek to shape a future that upholds the values of equity, inclusion, and lifelong learning. It is noteworthy that the theme aligns remarkably well with the European Educational Research Association (EERA)’s celebration of 30 years of service. This theme offers a significant opportunity to honour past accomplishments while tackling future obstacles with resilience and optimism. 

As we embark on this intellectual journey these four days, let us embrace the opportunity to build new partnerships and inspire one another to envision an educational landscape that not only adapts to change but also thrives in it. I am confident that the magnitude of academic expertise present at the conference guarantees a successful and intellectually stimulating experience. 

At this point, as the Minister of Education in Cyprus, I want to emphasise the crucial role of educational research in moulding policies and practices. The insights shared and debated in such conferences hold the power to shape educational policies on local, national, and global scales. It is vital to ensure that the conference's content reaches beyond academic circles and is shared with policymakers, educators, and other stakeholders. This broader dissemination can aid in translating research findings into practical applications for enhancing education systems worldwide. 

I extend my warm appreciation to the University of Cyprus for hosting the conference. I would also like to commend the scientific and the programme committees for ensuring a carefully selected and structured sequence of keynote lectures and paper sessions. I am sure that these will provide a productive context for fruitful discussions with enriching exchanges and ample opportunities for partnerships that would further benefit the collective goal of advancing education. 

Also, special thanks are due to the local organising committee for the tireless effort that went into preparing this event. Finally, I would like to thank each one of you for attending the conference and for your contribution to making it a successful and memorable event. 

Congratulations once more to EERA on achieving 30 years of excellence in educational research and service. I extend a warm welcome to everyone to Cyprus and wish you a fruitful and successful conference. 

(GS/NZ)