Commission welcomes 150 new scholars of the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community

This year's programme welcomes a new group of talented scholars, reflecting the community’s interest in pursuing educational and professional development opportunities in the EU.

The primary goal of the EU Scholarship Programme for the TCc is to promote social ties between the community and the European Union, and thereby helping to foster the reunification of Cyprus. Launched in 2007 as a substitute for the Erasmus+ programme, the EU’s flagship programme is implemented by the Goethe Institute, and has so far supported more than 2000 Turkish Cypriot students, with a budget of more than EUR 33 million.

Kjartan Björnsson, Deputy Director and Head of the Cyprus Settlement Support Unit at the Directorate-General REFORM of the European Commission highlighted that “the 2023 call of the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community reflects the European Union's ongoing dedication to supporting education and professional development. By investing in the scholars of today, the European Union seeks to create the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of tomorrow. The EU firmly believes that their dedication to knowledge and self-improvement will have a transformative impact on both their personal growth and the overall advancement of the Turkish Cypriot community, paving the way towards the reunification of the island.”

Gabriele Gauler, Director of Goethe Institute Cyprus, noted that “The Goethe-Institut is delighted to be partnering with the European Commission and is very committed to increasing the impact of the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, a flagship project of the EU. We are very happy that we received a record number of applications in the academic year 2023/24.”

Under this prestigious scholarship programme, selected scholars will have the opportunity to pursue advanced studies and training in 24 EU Member States in a wide array of disciplines, ranging from science to arts, humanities to European language skills. The EU is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment, where scholars can nurture valuable cross-cultural experiences and exchange ideas, enriching their academic journey.

For further information about the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, please visit EU SCHOLARSHIP (euburs.eu)