According to a recent article in the CyprusMail, professors at the University of Cyprus are urging their government to reconsider its decision to withdraw funding for a cutting-edge quantum technology center. They warn that it would be a missed opportunity and damage the country’s credibility.
The Quantum Computing for Science and Technology program, approved by the European Commission with €15 million in funding over six years, would establish the first quantum computing unit in Cyprus and the Middle East, excluding Israel.
The University of Cyprus ranked fourth among 130 applicants at the European level. However, the finance ministry’s decision to pull out of co-funding the project has sparked outrage among professors, who argue that it contradicts government statements to support excellence and utilize European funding.
If the December 6 deadline passes without approval, Cyprus will lose €15 million in funding and risk its participation in future co-funded projects.
Securing Funding for Emerging Quantum Technology: A Call to Action
The University of Cyprus has recently witnessed a significant development in the realm of emerging quantum technology. The Quantum Computing for Science and Technology (QSciTec) programme, approved by the European Commission for €15 million over six years, is poised to establish the first quantum computing unit in Cyprus and the Middle East, excluding Israel. However, the finance ministry’s decision to withdraw co-funding has sparked concern among professors at the University of Cyprus.
The QSciTec programme, ranked fourth among 130 applicants on a European level, was initially agreed upon by the Republic of Cyprus to be co-funded equally with the European Commission. The sudden withdrawal of this commitment has raised questions about the government’s stance on supporting excellence and utilizing European funding. As emphasized by the professors, this decision contradicts the government’s statements to support initiatives that promote excellence.
The implications of not securing funding for the QSciTec programme are far-reaching. If the December 6 deadline passes without co-funding approval, it would mark the first instance where the government failed to support the creation of an excellence centre approved under the teaming programme framework. This would result in the loss of €15 million in European funding, a significant setback for Cyprus.
Moreover, the professors have expressed concerns that the finance ministry’s decision may not have taken into account all aspects of the project. A withdrawal of interest could irreparably damage Cyprus’ credibility and put future participation in co-funded projects at risk. This is particularly concerning given that other EU countries are actively investing in quantum technology, an area where Cyprus risks lagging behind.
In conclusion, securing funding for the QSciTec programme is crucial for Cyprus’ emergence as a key player in quantum technology. The government’s role in supporting emerging technologies is vital, and its decision to co-fund or withdraw from this commitment would have significant consequences for the country’s economy, innovation ecosystem, and competitiveness.
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