CYPRUS NEUROSCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE
In the process of being renamed to Future Worlds Center
ACTIVITY REPORT 2006
December 2006 Official statement
This report was prepared in December 2006 and was approved during the regular Board meeting for the end of the year, which has taken place December 23 at the CNTI's offices in Nicosia. The Board meeting approved the pre-final Financial Statements for 2006, renewed the appointments of its Members and the authority of its President to represent the Institute in all legal matters.
______Dr. Yiannis Laouris The President
2 TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS...... 3
IDENTITY ...... 4 Bank Identification Data...... 4 Auditors Legal Advisor...... 5 Board...... 6 International Advisory Board ...... 6
ABOUT CNTI ...... 8 Founding Year and Short History of Evolution...... 8 Current State of Affairs ...... 8 Aims (as they appear in the Constitution)...... 8 Structure ...... 9 Units...... 11
PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES IN 2006 ...... 12 A. Civic Education – Civil Society and Development Education ...... 12 B. Technology for Peace ...... 15 C. Combating Trafficking in Women...... 17
INTERNATIONAL EVENTS ...... 18 Meetings, workshops, conferences and seminars attended by CNTI representatives during 2006:...... 18
PEOPLE WARE ...... 26 Full-Time Personnel...... 26 Part-Time Personnel ...... 26 External Associates ...... 27 Volunteers & Research Partners in various Projects ...... 34
RESOURCES...... 35 Current Financial Indicators (Last Financial Year)...... 35 Offices ...... 36
3 IDENTITY
Full legal name Cyprus Neuroscience and Technology Institute
Acronym (where C.N.T.I. applicable): Legal status: Non-Governmental / Non-Profit Organization VAT registration number Not available Registration Number HE 72 Official address: 5, Promitheos street, offices 4 & 9, 1065, Nicosia Postal address: 5, Promitheos street, offices 4 & 9, 1065, Nicosia Contact person: Dr. Yiannis Laouris (President) Telephone no: +357 22 87 38 20, Mbl: +357 99 63 21 22 Fax no: +357 22 87 38 21 E-mail address: [email protected] Organization Web Site: www.cnti.org.cy www.tech4peace.org www.everybodys-song.net www.eucitizenship.net www.y2p.org Project Web Sites www.cyberethics.info www.stellla.eu www.peacefuleurope.info www.urvt.org www.TalkoftheIsland.org
Bank Identification Data
Bank name Bank of Cyprus
Branch Code/Name 0128/SPYROU KYPRIANOU Bank Address 21,Spyrou Kyprianou Ave, 1075 Nicosia, CYPRUS Tel 00357 22847500 Fax 00357 22750590 SWIFT ADDRESS (BIC Code) BCYPCY2N Main Account: CY16 0020 0128 0000 0001 0257 5500 Tech4Peace: CY16 0020 0128 0000 0001 0257 5500 Accounts Media: CY75 0020 0128 0000 0001 0265 6500 Youth: CY63 0020 0128 0000 0001 0273 1600 Bank’s Web Site www.bankofcyprus.com
4 Auditors Legal Advisor
Name Nearchos Tsangaris CAT Kikis Makrides K. Maklaw Management Secretarial Company Active Management Services Ltd. 40, Kyriacos Matsis Ave., Thermopylon 73, Emmar - Andria Court, ATHENAEUM Build., 4th Floor, Office Address 2007 Acropolis, Nicosia 402, PostCode 1082 P.O. Box 22463, 1522 Nicosia Tel 00357 22427327 00357 22 313680 Fax 00357 22515125 00357 22 313903 Email [email protected] [email protected]
5 Board Name Position Academic/Current occupation
President & MD, PhD (Neurophysiology), MS Dr. Yiannis Laouris Senior (Systems engineering). Scientist
Board PhD in Social Science, Head of the Dr. Harry Member & Peace & Conflict Resolution Anastasiou Senior Program, Portland State Scientist University, Oregon, USA
Board PhD, in Educational Leadership, Dr. Nikleia Member & Assistant to the Head of Research Eteokleous Senior and Development, P.A. College, Scientist CYPRUS
Board Pantelis Makris Member & Head of Special Education, Senior Ministry of Education. Scientist
Dr. Joulietta Kalli Board MD, PhD, Child-psychiatrist. Laouri Member Dr. Christodoulos Board PhD in Education, Ex-District Laouris Member School Inspector.
M.A. in Political Science, Board Coordinator for tech4peace.org, Member Co-Director of Cyprus Consumers’ George Tziapouras Association.
M.A. in Political Science & International Relations, Advisor Xenia Secretary for EU Programs at the Univ. of Constantinou Cyprus.
International Advisory Board Name Current Position
Prof. Peter Gerjets Prof. Knowledge Media Research Center, Tuebingen, Germany
Prof. Sc. Med Emeritus Peter Ex-Head, Carl-Ludwig, Institute of Physiology, Schwartze Univ. Leipzig, Germany
Emeritus Professor of Communication at Prof. Gary Gumpert Queens College of the City University of New York and co-founder of Communication
6 Landscapers, a consulting firm.
Prof. Dr. med. Uwe Windhorst Ex-Professor of Physiology, Georg-August Dep. Physiology, Goettingen, Germany
Prof. Emeritus Regents Douglas Ex-Vice Dean and Head of Physiology, Univ. Stuart Arizona
Prof. Emeritus Aleco Christakis Professor Emeritus of Systems Science
7 ABOUT CNTI
Founding Year and Short History of Evolution C.N.T.I. was founded through the initiatives of Dr. Yiannis Laouris and a team of repatriated Cypriot scientists with the support of ex-Minister of Education and Culture Dr. Chrysostomos Sophianos, ex-School Inspector Dr. Christodoulos Laouris, the Bishop of Paphos Chrysostomos and three prominent foreign academics Prof. Dr. Sc. Med. Peter Scwhartze (Germany), Prof. Dr. Med. Habil. Uwe Windhorst (Germany/Canada), and Regents Prof. Biol. Douglas Stuart (USA). It was registered on the 6th of November 1991 and launched its activities in 1993. Between 1994-1999 it expanded its aims beyond research and Cyprus by hosting a number of peace and international development projects. It was re-structured in year 2000 modifying its original Constitution to embrace those projects aiming in the development of an active civil society in Cyprus, as well as projects with international scope, especially those that involve the application of technology towards bridging the literacy, economic and digital divides (Development and IT Education). Towards the end of 2005 it evolved into a larger organization with a pure international orientation integrating all its activities under one umbrella.
Current State of Affairs C.N.T.I. is currently in a phase of evolution and restructuring. Its various peripheral operations in other projects plus informal activities in both research and social intervention of some of its associates and friends are in a process of being merged into the larger operation. The enlarged organization is registered under the name “FUTURE WORLDS CENTER.” Its web address has been secured at www.futureworldscenter.org.
Aims (as they appear in the Constitution)
1. Designing and execution of studies and research programs with future orientation in areas related to the human brain and learning, technology and social change, global society, conflict transformation and global peace.” 2. Development of new models of education based on recent advances in cognitive science and computing. 3. World-wide operations focused on international development, cooperation, humanitarian support, justice, transparency and advocacy of human rights, especially the right of education and the enhancement of inter-ethnic and international peace. 4. Organization of scientific, technical and cultural events or programs in issues relevant to the aims of the organization. 5. Organize, conduct and supervise seminars, congresses, conferences, workshops; deliver courses; offer educational and/or information services in
8 the above sectors with the aim of sensitization, enlightenment or training of the modern active citizens. 6. Collaboration with universities, other institutions, organizations, and individual active citizens in Cyprus and abroad to promote the aims of the organization. 7. Serve as provider of information and consultant in academic, commercial, scientific and technical subjects. 8. Discovery, research, study, encouragement, support and promotion of new innovative ideas and methods, techniques, scientific technological, electronic systems and generally intellectual property. 9. Promotion of research in Cyprus and abroad in collaboration with other organizations, public or private, local or international for the achievement of our aims. 10. Promote Cyprus as a supporter of Development & IT education, scientific research and peace in the three continents around her, thus contributing towards consolidation of peace and prosperity in the wider geopolitical region. 11. Publication of material in subjects relevant with the aims of Institute.
Structure
The Cyprus Neuroscience & Technology Institute is a non-profit, non-Governmental, non-partisan independent Organization active in programs with future orientation in areas related to human brain-modern technology-social transformation and the repercussions of relevant research for humanity. It has the following operating units:
• Brain, Neuroscience & Special Education
• Civil Society and Future Affairs Unit
• Technology For Peace Unit
• Youth Promoting Peace Unit
• Brain, Neuroscience & Special Education Unit
• Alternative Media Initiative
• Humanitarian Affairs Unit
9
10 Units
Brain, Neuroscience & Special Education Develops new theories of learning based on mental attributes, web-based, video- game-like testing interfaces to evaluate cognitive profiles and learning abilities. It also develops software-based systems for treatment of various conditions.
Civil Society and Future Affairs Unit Develops and implements programs that aim the development of a responsible and active civil society. Specific projects focus in capacity building, peace-related process in Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean region, facilitation of communication and understanding between people in conflicting societies, public debates about human rights, transparency, safer use of Internet, extending European citizenship in the Southern parts of Europe, youth participation etc. It organizes seminars, workshops, trainings and conferences to promote its social- intervention aims.
Technology For Peace Unit Develops theory on how technology can and must be used in the service of peace. More specifically, it develops educationally relevant and socially responsible IT & Mobile-based curriculum. It participates in various international and European organizations and through its Development Education program aims to contribute towards bridging the literacy, economic and digital divides in our world.
Youth Promoting Peace Unit Supports youth initiatives that aim social transformation, youth participation, peace and co-existence in conflict societies
Brain, Neuroscience & Special Education Unit Develops new theories of learning based on mental attributes, web-based, video- game-like testing interfaces to evaluate cognitive profiles and learning abilities. It also develops software-based systems for treatment of various conditions.
Alternative Media Initiative Aims to promote human rights through media literacy. It focuses on the organization of events, seminars and workshops to train students in the fields of media, young journalists and media personnel in issues of transparency, fairness and responsible journalism. Furthermore, it organizes capacity building seminars to equip NGO personnel with skills on how to make use of the media to promote their organizational aims.
Humanitarian Affairs Unit The CNTI acts as implementing partner of the UNHCR in Cyprus. The Unit provides legal support, free of charge, to refugees and asylum seekers, for issues related to the asylum procedure and other related matters. The Unit also runs a project for setting up structures on the recognition and rehabilitation of victims of torture. Final outcome will be the establishment and operation of a unit for the rehabilitation of victims of torture, concentrating on asylum seekers and refugees.
11 PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES IN 2006
A. Civic Education – Civil Society and Development Education
Extending EU Citizenship to the Eastern End of Europe http://www.eucitizenship.net
“Extending EU Citizenship to the Eastern End of Europe,” was inaugurated on the 1st of January 2006 and concluded on the 31st of December 2006. Lead Agency is the Future Worlds Center and although most activities focus on the Cyprus reality, the tools and methodologies are tested and disseminated in Denmark, Belgium, as well as in the Southern Eastern end of Europe (Turkey, Palestine, Lebanon). The project responds to the strong need for EU citizenship awareness, especially in the new member states. The proposed awareness activities make use of printed and electronic information material (distributed to relevant bodies as well as to the wide public), workshops (offered to special target groups), panel discussions (for the public) and live Radio/TV programs. The need for relevant, accurate, immediate and easy-to-access information is satisfied using an innovative communication tool, an automated call-answer centre (ACC). The ACC responds on an easy-to-remember, widely publicized toll-free telephone number. It offers a tree-structured number of layered responses. Training in topics relevant to EU Citizenship has been delivered to specialized groups such as: lawyers, teachers, activists, school counsellors, civil servant etc. Curriculum units for high schools focusing on selected fundamental human rights have been developed and will be submitted to the Ministry of Education for inclusion in their regular curriculum. The project has received funding from the EC, DG JLS.
Strengthening Asylum for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Cyprus
The Future Worlds Center is the implementing partner of a UNHCR project, which aims at supporting asylum seekers and refugees throughout their legal procedures. The applicant offers free legal advice to asylum seekers and refugees. Funded by UNHCR
CyberEthics www.cyberethics.info
The Future Worlds Center has established the Safer Internet Awareness Node as member of the Insafe European network. Partners are the University of Cyprus, the Family Planning, the Olive Branch Foundation (Turkish Cypriot NGO), the Cyprus Youth Council and the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation. The primary objective is to implement a strong campaign, under the acronym “CyberEthics” concerning the safe use of Internet in Cyprus, which will serve the needs of all people that live on the island (i.e., also Turkish Cypriots and other minorities) and address not only issues of pornography, but also racism (currently on the rise in Cyprus), gender discrimination and inappropriate use of peoples’ images. The second objective is to
12 engage in the process actors from the government and the civil society, thus contributing towards the eradication of cyber crime through informed actions of European citizens and public institutions that aim to change behaviours, mentality and attitudes, giving special emphasis to rural and less developed areas of the country.
I.S.O.L.A. www.isolaproject.org
The Future Worlds Center is an implementing partner of the project entitled: ‘Innovative Strategies and Opportunities for Less Favoured Areas’, with the lead agency being Cultural Association of ORIENTARE in Cagliari/ Italy. The main aims of the project are to involve Youth from Less Favoured Areas in Trainings and Actions that will strengthen their social skills, their qualifications for their professional careers, and that will help disseminate the values and objectives of the European Union. The Local Coordinator of the organisation attended a 5-day Training on the Youth Programme, Project development and management skills for working in multilateral teams in Cagliari/ Italy.
Peaceful Europe www.peacefuleurope.info
The Future Worlds Center acts as an implementing partner of the project entitled ‘Peaceful Europe’, with the lead agency being the Municipality of Senigalia/ Italy. The project includes the development of an educational curriculum on Peace, as well as local and international workshops and seminars for citizens of all ages. The organisation will implement workshops for primary school children and their parents, for high school students, and for elders – the objective of the workshops in all cases being intercultural dialogue and peace. A group of 12 young citizens will take part in a 5-day international event in Italy in May 2007.
Unit for the Rehabilitation for Victims of Torture www.urvt.org
The Unit for Rehabilitation for Victims of Torture is a project funded by the European Refugee Fund and the Asylum Service of Ministry of Interior. This project has been initiated by the Future Worlds Center and it will be registered as a spin off organization. The aim of this project is to create awareness and education on victims of torture, into the already available services in Cyprus dealing with asylum seekers and refugees and to create a unit for their rehabilitation. This unit assists victims of torture by providing multidisciplinary treatment and rehabilitation services, and raises public awareness of issues concerning torture and rehabilitation. It consists of a social worker, a medical doctor, a psychologist, a secretary, and a coordinator.
International Day of Peace
On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, the Future Worlds Center organised an event with both Greek and Turkish Cypriots, offering youth the chance
13 to write a letter to a student in another conflict region, releasing balloons with wishes for peace, and screening the documentary ‘Peace One Day’ by Jeremy Gilley.
Everybody’s song – Music as a tool for the promotion of diversity and intercultural understanding www.everybodys-song.net
The Future Worlds Center developed and coordinates this international youth project which started in December 2006 and runs until May 2008. Its general aim is to reflect on the role of music in intercultural understanding and to identify ways on how to utilise it in youth work. It involves youth organisations from five different South East European countries: Bulgaria, Cyprus, FYR Macedonia, Greece and Serbia. Main activities: ¾ international contact making seminar and training in FYR Macedonia ¾ country-specific activities: workshops, intercultural music events and productions, awareness raising activities ¾ international youth art camp in Serbia ¾ international youth exchanges in Greece and FYR Macedonia ¾ movie screenings and panel discussions in FYR Macedonia and Cyprus ¾ online platform ¾ final international seminar in Cyprus ¾ website with contents in seven different languages (Albanian, Bulgarian, English, Greek, Macedonian, Serbian and Turkish) ¾ multimedia CD-ROM (DVD) ¾ documentation booklet
Establishing an island-wide development NGO platform in Cyprus www.cyprusngdos.org
As one of the 5 founding members, the Future Worlds Center was strongly involved in creating an island-wide platform for NGOs active in issues related to development, and NGOs that aspire to assume a more active role in this area. Cyprus was the last EU country to establish a national NGDO platform and the applicant has played an instrumental role in materializing this goal. The creation of the platform has been supported and facilitated by CONCORD (http://www.concordeurope.org) and TRIALOG (http://www.trialog.or.at). Members of the organisation have participated in study visits to Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava, in coordination with TRIALOG organised a conference on Development with speakers from the European Commission (EuropeAid) and the Maltese platform, hand have participated in numerous other European events. (DEEEP Summer School on Sports and Development; DE Meeting in Helsinki, Development Education Partnership Fair in Vienna, Development Education Training for the new Call for Proposals in Warsaw). The Future Worlds Center is the Cypriot representative to the Development Education Forum of DEEEP (www.deeep.org).
14 World Fair Trade Day
On 13th May, the Future Worlds Center together with an ad-hoc initiative of active citizens organised a fair trade bazaar for the occasion of the World Fair Trade Day. In addition to fair trade products, the event aimed at disseminating information about fair trade to the wider public and to raise awareness about social and economic conditions in developing countries, as well as about the interdependence of Cyprus and the developing world.
B. Technology for Peace
Talk of the Island www.talkoftheisland.org
Talk of the Island is the first bi-communal radio programme on the island of Cyprus. It wants to promote a culture of peace and to display balanced news reporting by informing all island communities about local issues and events that are not typically covered by the current media. The show also provides a forum for open, island-wide dialogue and direct communication about on-going issues. Talk of the Island aspires to be instrumental in providing a vehicle for all Cypriots who share a vision for the future and that of a unified Cyprus. Talk of the Island started broadcasting in October 2005. The program is implemented by two skilled producers working together, one from northern Cyprus and one from southern Cyprus. It is broadcasted weekly in both parts of Cyprus. Talk of the Island is also broadcasted online at www.talkoftheisland.org.
Tech4Peace www.tech4peace.org
Technology For Peace develops theory on how technology can and must be used in the service of peace. More specifically, originally as a project and for the past two years as self sustaining unit within the organization, Tech4Peace develops educationally relevant and socially responsible IT & Mobile-based curriculum. Through its Development Education program, it aims to internationally promote the use of technology as a means to bridge the various divides on our planet – the digital, cultural, economic, literacy, gender and people with disabilities. The initial purpose of the project was to design and develop a comprehensive virtual infrastructure for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot peace-promoting individuals and groups and indirectly support their activities by introducing an Information Technology dimension to their work. Furthermore, the project aimed to become the central reference, information and meeting point, which will be providing different types of support, information, ideas and inspiration to the various peace building initiatives both in Cyprus and overseas. Although located in Cyprus, it has an international scope.
15 Stellla www.stellla.eu
SteLLLa (“Stimulation of eLearning for Life Long Learning for adults”) is a partnership of 7 European partners from Belgium, Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Spain supported by the EU Lifelong Learning Programme (LLP) and sub-programme GRUNDTVIG. Life long learning will be a key factor for the professional, personal and social success of adults in tomorrows’ society. It is the ambitious aim of steLLLa to develop a generic method for autonomous learning for adults that can be implemented in the training courses of various professions. Starting from concrete eLearning tasks; trainers, learners and the partner institutions will create new good practice examples for several domains. Adult learners will be involved in the test settings. The project will promote these new eLearning techniques to enhance the Life Long Learning opportunities for adults. Via transnational meetings and discussions with trainers, learners and specialists, via conferences (life and video), the eLearning platform and our website, we will optimize and promote this eLearning method as a stimulating factor in the open and distance learning for adults.
Cost 219ter
The Future Worlds Center serves as the National Contact Point in the European network COST Action 219ter: Accessibility for All to Services and Terminals for Next Generation Networks. The Action merges the new mobile technologies to a humanitarian angle, aspiring to the day which new mobile technologies will be accessible and beneficial to all. Driving principle of the action is that the latest mobile systems will provide the opportunity for building a more inclusive telecommunications arena. The applicant has recently organized a European conference in Cyprus (http://www.cnti.org.cy/cost219) and is co-authoring a book chapter in a Cost219ter book publication.
Research on Mobile Learning and Educational Technologies
The applicant in collaboration with two departments of the University of Cyprus, the Knowledge Management Research Center of the University of Tuebingen (Germany), the Open University of the Netherlands, the LSRI (Learning Sciences Research Institute, Nottingham, England), the TECFA (Technologies de Formation et Apprentissage (Genf, Switzerland) and the CNRS (Laboratoire D’etude del’apprentissage et du developpement, France) conducts research on mobile learning and educational technologies. The research project has received funding from the German Leibnitz Society. The aim is to explore the learning effectiveness of multimedia and animations and to develop mobile learning applications which can be integrated in regular school curricula.
16 C. Combating Trafficking in Women
The Future Worlds Center has drafted a comprehensive project proposal in close collaboration with a NGO in Kosovo and one in Moldova. Even though the proposal has been rejected by the ADA, it created a working relationship between the three NGOs. In September, the applicant was invited to the Annual La Strada NGO Platform Meeting in Kiev, which gave the opportunity to strengthen the network with other trafficking NGOs, as well as to agree on forms of collaboration with NGOs in Moldova, Bulgaria and Russia. The Future Worlds Center has recently drafted an Action Plan for 2007 to assist victims of trafficking in Cyprus. The applicant keeps a working relationship to anti- trafficking NGOs in Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia, Moldova, which allows coordination and a targeted out-reach to women originating from these countries( the main countries of origin among trafficked women in Cyprus). Having established the Unit for the Rehabilitation of Torture Victims, the applicant aspires to offer services for victims of trafficking as well.
17 INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
Meetings, workshops, conferences and seminars attended by CNTI representatives during 2006:
Comments/ more Date Place/Country Who went? Programme details 05-10 MAR Sevilla/ Spain Yiannis Cost219ter Participation in the 2006 Laouris science and management team of the network as Cyprus representative.
06-09 APR San Francisco/ Yiannis Conference Participation in the 2006 USA Laouris AERA American Education Research Association yearly conference. Chair of one session, presenter of a paper and reviewer of 22 papers.
04-14 MAY Beirut/ Jenine Talk of the Video-taping and 2006 Lebanon Alexander Island interviewing people in the streets about their attitudes on various issues related to peace and development in the region.
11-18 JUN Hattingen/ Kerstin Wittig TRIALOG/ DE Summer School: 2006 Germany DEEEP “Global Games: The Role DE Summer of Sports in School Development Education” Participation in the working group ‘Schools’ as well as in workshops ‘Peace and Politics in the context of Sport’ and ‘Sport is a school for life’.
19-21 JUN Luxembourg Yiannis CyberEthics Participation in the 2006 Laouris Management meeting of all 27 Awareness Nodes for the Safer use of the Internet as the Cyprus Node representative.
30 JUN – 05 Helsinki/ Yiannis TRIALOG/ Participation in the DE JUL 2006 Finland Laouris DEEEP Forum as the
18 DE Forum representative of the Cyprus NGDO Platform.
10-15 JUL Alexandria/ Yiannis EUMEDIS Following the completion 2006 Egypt Laouris Conference of a EUMEDIS project in which CNTI was a partner, our team was selected to present our project in the closing ceremony.
16-29 JUL Havana/ Cuba Yiannis Presentation Presentation of our work 2006 Laouris of our work at related to development Greek in the Greek Orthodox Orthodox Church in Havana. Church in Havana 02-08 AUG Cagliari/ Italy Kerstin Wittig I.S.O.L.A. First I.S.O.L.A. Seminar: 2006 ‘YOUTH Inclusion – Opportunities within the Youth Programme’ and Kick-off Meeting of the project 12-29 AUG Berlin/ Elia Petridou Training on SLE plus: Berlin Training 2006 Germany Conflict for International Prevention Development and Conflict Cooperation at the SLE Management Humboldt Universität Berlin. The programme is funded by DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), the Senat of Berlin and Trialog. 31 AUG – 09 Edinburgh/ UK Yiannis ALT-C 2006 Participation at the ALT- SEP 2006 Laouris Conference C 2006 Conference. Presentation of a paper. 13-16 SEP Helsinki/ Yiannis CyberEthics Participation in the 2006 Finland Laouris Management meeting of all 27 Awareness Nodes for the Safer use of the Internet as the Cyprus Node representative. 20-22 SEP Thessaloniki/ Elia Petridou CyberEthics 1st International 2006 Greece Conference organized by the Greek Node for the Safer Use of the Internet. The Conference with theme “we want safer children online” involved participants from around
19 the world.
21-25 SEP St. Petersburg/ Reinhard Youth “All different – All Equal” 2006 Russian Eckert Promoting European Youth Event Federation Peace for Diversity, Human Rights and Participation of the Council of Europe in Saint-Petersburg.
23-27 SEP Brussels/ Corina Strengthening 5th Conference by the 2006 Belgium Drousiotou Asylum Odysseus Network regarding the minimum standards of the reception conditions for the Asylum Seekers.
26-27 SEP Kiev/ Ukraine Kerstin Wittig La Strada Annual La Strada NGO 2006 NGO Platform Platform Meeting: Anti- Meeting Trafficking Activity Towards Safe Migration Perspectives Role of NGOs as Watchdogs and Service- Providers 29-30 SEP Luxembourg Tonia SafeNet Application Submission 2006 Loizidou 1-8 OCT Mollina/ Spain Elia Petridou, Youth Seminar on Diversity, 2006 Reinhard Promoting Human Rights and Eckert Peace Participation in the framework of Euro- Mediterranean Youth Cooperation – with a focus on youth policy development and cooperation in the Euro- Med and Middle-East regions.
6-8 OCT Vienna/ Kerstin Wittig TRIALOG Development Education 2006 Austria Partnership Fair for Development NGOs in New Member States to jointly develop projects under the ED Call for Proposal by the EC.
21 OCT 2006 Senigallia/ Tonia Peaceful Kick-off Meeting of Italy Loizidou Europe ‘Peaceful Europe’ project
09-10 NOV Bergamo/ Italy Kerstin Wittig EMPOWER Representing CNTI at 2006 European the European Civil Civil Society Society Forum, bringing
20 Forum together 400 NGOs from across Europe to work on Communication 20-25 NOV Athens/ Elia Petridou, Unit for the Training at the Medical 2006 Greece Tonia Rehabilitation Centre for the Loizidou, of Victims of Rehabilitation of Torture Corina Torture Victims (MRCT) lead Drousiotou, applicants on a Anda projected funded by the Argyropoulou, ERF and the government Jennifer of the Republic of Baldassari, Cyprus. Purpose of the Dr Elias week long training was Papadopoulos to prepare the trainees for setting up and running the Unit for the Rehabilitation for Victims of Torture. 22-25 NOV Tübingen/ Loredana New Media in The New Media in 2006 Germany Mihalca, Learning Lab Learning Lab has a joint Yiannis grant with the Laouris Knowledge Media Research Center of the University of Tuebingen. All partners met for 3 days to work on together on projects which aim to evaluate the effectiveness of visualizations (in computer based learning). 06-08 DEC Bruges/ Elia Petridou CyberEthics The training in Bruges 2006 Belgium facilitated in the structural development of the Node through an exchange of best practices between the participating Nodes. This was the first Insafe plus Training meeting. 06-08 DEC Warsaw/ Kerstin Wittig TRIALOG Training on DE Call for 2006 Poland Proposals to prepare for the submission of Concept Notes
21 Cost219ter: 05-10 March, Spain
Yiannis Laouris participated in the Science and Management Team of the cost219ter network, ‘Accessibility for All to Services and Terminals for Next Generation Networks’, acting as a Cyprus representative.
AERA Conference: 06-09 April, San Francisco/ USA
Yiannis Laouris participated in the American Education Research Association yearly conference. He acted as Chair of one session, presented a paper and also served as reviewer of 22 papers.
Talk of the Island – Stories in Cyberland : 04-14 May, Beirut, Lebanon
Jenine Alexander visited Beirut for one week to video-tape students and interview people in the streets about their opinions on various issues related to peace and development in the region, exploring also the attitudes towards the post-conflict Lebanon within the different generations. More information can be found at: www.talkoftheisland.org/storiesincyberland.
Development Education Summer School: 11-18 June, Hattingen/ Germany
Kerstin Wittig represented the Cyprus NGDO Platform at the annual Development Education Summer School by DEEEP. The topic of the 2006 Summer School was: “Global Games: The Role of Sports in Development Education’. The summer school was attended by participants from more than 26 countries and included four different working groups as well as four different workshops, focussing on different topics and different target groups (school, media, sport clubs etc). Apart from exploring the field of Sports in Development, the ground has been laid for future collaboration among several NGOs participating at the one-week event. More information on the Summer School can be found at: www.development-and-sport.org.
Insafe-Meeting: 19-21 June, Luxembourg
Yiannis Laouris participation in the Management meeting of all 27 European Awareness Nodes for the Safer use of the Internet as the representative of the Cyprus Node.
Development Education Forum: 30 June – 05 July, Helsinki/ Finland
Yiannis Laouris represented the Cyprus NGDO platform at the Development Education Forum in Helsinki, being part of the working group focussing on Development Education curricula in Schools and ways to promote such curricula across Europe.
22 EUMEDIS Final Conference: 10-15 June, Alexandria/ Egypt
Following the completion of a EUMEDIS project, MedPride, in which CNTI was a partner, the CNTI team was selected to present our project in the closing ceremony, where all EUMEDIS projects have been presented.
Meeting with Greek Orthodox Church: 16-29 June, Havana/ Cuba
Yiannis Laouris attended a meeting with the Greek Orthodox Church on Havana to present relevant work of CNTI that focuses on development. The objective of the meeting was to explore possible possibilities of collaboration and of assisting people in Cuba.
I.S.O.L.A. – Seminar: 02-08 August, Cagliari/ Italy
Kerstin Wittig represented the CNTI during the first Seminar of the I.S.O.L.A. project. The Seminar focused on methods of international project management and on inclusion of youth with fewer opportunities. The seminar was hosted by the lead agency of the project, ORIENTARE.
SLE plus – Berlin Training for International Development Cooperation: 12-29 August, Berlin/ Germany
Elia Petridou participated in the SLE plus Berlin Training for International Development Cooperation, with a special focus on Training on Conflict Prevention and Conflict Management. The Training was hosted by the Humboldt University of Berlin and financially supported by the DAAD, the Senate of Berlin and TRIALOG.
ALT-C 2006 Conference: 31 August – 09 September, Edinburgh/ Scotland
Yiannis Laouris participated in the ALT-C 2006 conference with a presentation of one of his papers.
Management Meeting of Awareness Nodes for the Safer Use of the Internet: 13-16 September, Helsinki/ Finland
Yiannis Laouris participated in the Management Meeting involving all representatives of all 27 European Awareness Nodes for the Safer use of the Internet.
“We want Safer Children Online” Conference: 20-22 September, Thessaloniki/ Greece
Elia Petridou attended the first International Conference organized by the Greek Awareness Node for the Safer Use of the Internet. The Conference involved participants from all across the globe. Elia represented the Cyprus Awareness Node.
23 “All Different – All Equal”: 21-25 September, St. Petersburg/ Russian Federation
Reinhard Eckert participated at the “All Different – All Equal” European Youth Event for Diversity, Human Rights and Participation of the Council of Europe. During this event, Reinhard participated in the working group on discrimination and promotion of inclusion and the role of human rights education. This event built the foundation for future collaboration among several NGOs represented during the seminar.
5th Conference by the Odysseus Network: 23-27 September, Brussels/ Belgium
Corina Drousiotou participated at the conference, which main focus was the new minimum standards of the reception conditions for Asylum Seekers in the different European countries.
Annual La Strada NGO Platform Meeting: 26-27 September, Kiev/ Ukraine
Kerstin Wittig was invited to represent the Cyprus NGOs active in the anti-Trafficking field during the annual La Strada NGO Platform Meeting. This year’s meeting focused on the two topics: ‘Anti-Trafficking Activity towards Safe Migration Perspectives’, and ‘the Role of NGOs as Watchdogs and Service-Providers’.
Diversity, Human Rights and Participation in the framework of the Euro- Mediterranean Youth Cooperation: 01-08 October, Mollina/Spain
Both Elia Petridou and Reinhard Eckert attended the Seminar on Diversity, Human Rights and Participation in the framework of Euro-Mediterranean Youth Cooperation, with a focus on youth policy development and cooperation in the Euro-Med and Middle-East regions. The seminar was organized by the European Youth Forum and the Partnership on Youth between the Council of Europe and the European Commission.
Development Education Partnership Fair: 06-08 October, Vienna/ Austria
Kerstin Wittig attended the Development Education Partnership Fair on behalf of CNTI, to work on project concepts with other NGOs from old and new Member States. Various working groups concentrated on different project ideas. Kerstin participated in groups with the following topics: Development Education in Schools, MDGs, Audiovisual Tools for Development Education, Migration. Three concrete project ideas have been developed within these working groups.
Kick-off Meeting of ‘Peaceful Europe’ Project: 21 October, Senigallia/ Italy
Tonia Loizidou represented the CNTI in this kick-off meeting, hosted by the lead agency of the project, the Commune di Senigallia. During the meeting, all partners
24 agreed on the actions to follow under this project. (Needs Analysis, Development of Curriculum, Outreach to citizens of all ages, creation of Educational Cities, Intercultural event in Italy).
EMPOWER – European Civil Society Forum: 09-10 November, Bergamo/ Italy
Kerstin Wittig represented the CNTI at the European Civil Society Fair, at which about 400 NGOS from all across Europe were participating. The forum addressed issues of civic participation, civic education, connecting citizens to each other, connecting citizens to the public institutions, and methods to use the Internet for civic matters.
Training at the MRCT: 20-25 November, Athens/ Greece
The Unit for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture (Elia Petridou, Tonia Loizidou, Corina Drousiotou, Anda Argyropoulou, Jennifer Baldassari and Dr Elias Papadopoulos) took part in a training by the lead agency of the project, the Medical Centre for the Rehabilitation of Torture Victims (MRCT) in Athens. The purpose of this training was to prepare and train the Cypriot staff to set up the Unit for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture in Nicosia.
Working Meeting: Computer Based Learning: 22-25 November, Tübingen, Germany
The New Media in Learning Lab has a joint project with the Knowledge Media Research Center of the University of Tübingen. All partners met for three days to work on the evaluation of effectiveness of visualizations in computer based learning. Loredana Mihalca and Yiannis Laouris attended the meeting as representatives of the CNTI research team.
Insafe plus-Training: 06-08 December, Bruges/ Belgium
Elia Petridou attended the training as representative of the Cyprus Awareness Node for the Safer Use of the Internet. The training mainly focused on structural development through an exchange of best practices between the participating Nodes. This was the first Insafe plus Training meeting.
Training on DE Concept Note Preparation: 06-08 December, Warsaw/ Poland
Kerstin Wittig attended the TRIALOG training to prepare and elaborate with the project partners on concept notes to be submitted under the EC Development Education Call for Proposals.
25 PEOPLE WARE
Full-Time Personnel
Name Position e-mail
Dr. Yiannis Laouris President of the Board [email protected]
Elia Petridou Senior Coordinator [email protected]
Kerstin Wittig Programme Developer [email protected]
Tonia Loizidou Administrator [email protected]
Corina Drousiotou Legal Advisor [email protected]
Olivia Marangou Legal Advisor [email protected]
Maria Avraamidou Legal Advisor [email protected]
Vipar Uthenpong IT Expert [email protected]
Jenine Alexander Visiting Scientist (5 months) [email protected]
Reinhard Eckert Project Coordinator [email protected]
Christos Xenophontos Research Assistant [email protected]
Anda Argyropoulou Social Worker [email protected]
Jennifer Baldassari Administrator URVT [email protected]
Part-Time Personnel
Name Position e-mail
Panayiota Shiakalli Research Associate [email protected]
Christiane El-Haddad Research Associate in [email protected] Special Education Unit
Rebecca A. Brubaker Fulbright Scholar (Sept. [email protected] 2006 – May 2007)
Xenia Constantinou Research Associate, [email protected] Secretary of the Board
Tatjana Taraszow Visiting Scientist (2 months) [email protected]
Julia Wahl Visiting Scientist (2 months) [email protected]
26 Loredana Mihalca Visiting Scientist (3 months) [email protected]
Mary Olin Visiting Scientist (3 months) [email protected]
Matthew Pfeiffer Visiting Scientist (3 months) [email protected]
Ilaria Cardascia Communications Officer [email protected]
Dr Elias Papadopoulos Medical Director [email protected]
External Associates
Name Position
Dr. Harry Anastasiou Senior Research Scientist
Prof. Peter Gerjets Visiting Research Professor
Dr. Nikleia Eteokleous Research Associate in Mobile Learning Unit
Prof. Gary Gumpert Visiting Professor of Communications
Dr. Timotheos Assistant Professor of Psychology Papadopoullos
Prof. Suzan Drucker Visiting Professor of Journalism/ Mass Media Studies
Yiola Papadopoullou Research Associate in Mobile Learning Unit
Larry Fergeson Research Associate
27 Short CVs of current associates in alphabetical order
Ms Jenine Alexander worked with the CNTI from January – May 2006. She has a BA in both International Affairs and Studio Art from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon. Jenine's thesis in International Affairs researched the regional implications of the public peace process of sustained dialogue that was used in Tajikistan beginning in 1993. During her time at CNTI she was mainly involved in the Talk of the Island project, and initiated the ‘Stories in Cyberland’ project including radio interviews with people in Cyprus, Greece, Turkey and Lebanon. Jenine’s current interest is to learn more about communication tools for resolving conflict non-violently. She also participates in the “Emotions in Learning” project of the New Media in Learning Laboratory.
Dr. Harry Anastasiou is a Senior Research Scientist and Member of the Board. He holds a Ph.D. in the Political Sociology of Peace and Conflict from the Union Institute & University, Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Doctorandus Degree from the Free University of Amsterdam, Holland in the Sociology of Technology. He is a long-standing academic in inter-ethnic and international peace and conflict studies, and an experienced practitioner of conflict-resolution. At present, he is a core faculty of the Conflict Resolution Graduate Program and an affiliate of International Studies at Portland State University. For over fifteen years he has been playing a leading role in the development and growth of a citizen-based peace movement in the ethnically divided island of Cyprus and in Greek-Turkish relations. He has also been a participating member of “The Harvard Study Group”, a bi-communal think tank comprised of policy leaders and academics working on ideas and approaches for the peaceful resolution of the Cyprus problem. As an academic, he has published numerous articles on peace and conflict issues, focusing in particular on Cyprus, Nationalism, Peace building and the European Union.
Ms Anda Argyropoulou, with her background in Sociology is the social worker of the Unit for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture. She has extensive research experience with Post Traumatic Stress Disorders especially in the environment of interviews and descriptions of traumatic experiences. She has been working with the Unit since November of 2006 after receiving special training with the URVT team in the Medical Rehabilitation Center for Torture Victims in Athens.
Jennifer L. Baldassari is the Administrator of the Unit for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Public Communication and a Master’s degree in Psychology, both from American University in Washington, DC. She has worked in the fields of marketing, media relations, public relations and psychology. Jennifer worked for more than three years as Media and Marketing Coordinator at the National Center for Victims of Crime, a national nonprofit organization in Washington DC. Before moving to Cyprus, Jennifer was a Research
28 Associate at Capital Clinical Research Associates, where she conducted pharmaceutical clinical trial research for psychiatric medications.
Ms Ilaria Cardascia took her senior degree (second level) in Arts, Music and Performing, Faculty of Literature and Philosophy in the University of Bologna (Italy). In CNTI she has the role of the communications officer, and is involved in the CyberEthics project. She would like to combine arts and technologies for a multicultural society, and work particularly with young people.
Ms Xenia Constantinou is the Secretary of the Board. She currently serves as research associate for the European Citizenship project. She has studied Political Science at the University of Cyprus and she has a Master in International Relations from the University of Essex (UK). Before working for C.N.T.I. she worked as a research assistant for the University of Cyprus for projects like "Women and Politics", "Volunteerism", "Turkey's Foreign Policy on Cyprus" etc. As a coordinator of "Youth Promoting Peace" the group expanded and realised many activities like, music festivals, conferences, parties, bi-communal and mono-communal workshops, the production of a CD and a short movie that portrays the adventures of a bi-communal youth group.
Ms Corina Drousiotou has a degree in law from the Aristotelio University of Thessaloniki, Greece and a master’s degree in European and International Trade Law, University of Leicester , UK. She has been with CNTI since May 2006 and is a legal consultant for asylum seekers and refugees on the UNHCR funded project 'Strengthening Asylum in Cyprus’.
Mr. Reinhard Eckert holds an MA degree in educational science and special/therapeutic pedagogics from the University of Vienna. He has been involved in the peace movement in Austria and former Yugoslavia for several years before moving to Cyprus in June 2006. Reinhard has specialised on peace, intercultural and human rights education and has previously been working at the Boltzmann Institute of Human Rights in Vienna and in educational and social projects in Albania , Croatia , Romania and Serbia . At the Future Worlds Center , he is mainly involved in the Youth Promoting Peace Unit, the Civil Society and Future Affairs Unit and the Alternative Media Initiative. He is a co-coordinator of the Talk of the Island project and has developed and coordinates the international youth project “Everybody’s song – Music as a tool for the promotion of diversity and intercultural understanding”.
29 Mrs. Christiane El-Haddad is a Research Associate since 1996. She holds a BA in Psychology and various certificates in psychology and neuroscience. She served as the coordinating scientist for the development of the MAPS (Mental Attributes Profiling System) project which was funded by the Research Promotion Foundation) and co-organized several Yearly “Computers and Dyslexia” meetings (1996, 1997, 1998). Her current research work involves the study of children’ s ability to express and recognize emotions and its role in learning.
Dr. Nikleia Eteokleous is a Research Scientist at CNTI. Ph.D of the Pennsylvania State University in Educational Leadership. She also has two master degrees, in Educational Administration, and in Instructional Systems with emphasis in Computer Technology in Education, from the Pennsylvania State University, and a bachelor degree in Public and Business Administration from University of Cyprus. Served as a branch manager and computer instructor at Cyber Kids for several years. She has also worked as a research assistant for three years at the Educational Leadership Program at the Pennsylvania State University. Her research focuses on areas of educational leadership and management, computer technology in education, and systemic change in education. Her recent publications are about mobile learning and distance education. Will serve as Coordinator.
Mr. Larry Fergeson is a Research Associate working in various projects. He started as an MA student of the Conflict Resolution Graduate Program of the Portland state University and continues as a part-time Associate. His interests include applications of technology to promote transparency, fight exclusion and human trafficking as well as a tool to bridge the digital, literacy and economic divide.
Dr. Joulietta Kalli-Laouri is a Research Advisor and Member of the Board. She is a child-psychiatrist trained in Goettingen, Germany with a PhD in Neurophysiology. She is based in Nicosia and leads a team of about 6 experts (clinical psychologists, development psychologists, counselors, special educators, etc.) She collaborates with the Special Education Unit on research projects that involve children with attention deficit, dyslexia and emotional disturbances.
Dr. Yiannis Laouris is a Senior Scientist and President of CNTI. Heads the “New Media in Learning,” and the Neuroscience Lab. Neuroscientist (MD, PhD) and Systems engineer (MS) trained in Germany and the US. Publishes in the area of learning through computers, the web and mobile phones and about the potential role of IT to bridge the gaps (economic, gender, disabilities etc.) in our society. Participates in Cost219: Accessibility for All, and Cost276: Knowledge Management. Founder of a chain of computer learning centers for children (www.cyber-kids.com). The curriculum (a new learning theory based on an
30 educationally relevant and socially responsible approach) developed by members of the applicant organization under his supervision received 7 international awards for innovation and social responsibility.
Ms Tonia Loizidou holds a BSc in Psychology from Central Michigan University, USA and a MSc in Applied Psychology from Brunel University, UK. She is Also in the process of receiving her qualification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy from Beck Institute of Cognitive Therapy and Research, USA. She has been working with the CNTI since May, 2006 holding the position of the administrator. She has been involved in projects of the EU Citizenship and Human Rights Program, she is coordinating the Peaceful Europe project and has the psychologist’s position for the Unit for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture. Her future involvement will also include scientific research.
Mr. Pantelis Makris is a Senior Research Scientist, Member of the Board and leads the Special Education Unit, which pioneers in the development of screening/evaluation as well as treatment software-based tools for learning difficulties. He is a special education inspector employed by the Ministry of education, member of the multidisciplinary committee for the assessment of special needs children, President of the Information and Communication Technology Committee at the Ministry of Education, project manager for various European and non European projects (ARION, COST, UNOPS, IPE) and Coordinator of Information and Communication Technology use for Children with Mental Retardation integrated in Secondary and Higher Education.
Ms Olivia Marangou graduated from Coventry University UK, in 2000 and obtained a Bachelor of Law (LLB) She is a registered lawyer at Cyprus Bar Association. In 2002 she has attained her MA in European Studies from Coventry University, UK, (Distinction awarded). At CNTI she is working under a project funded by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), providing free legal advice to asylum seekers and refugees. The aim is to enable them to claim their rights and facilitate their integration and participation in society.
Ms Yiola Papadopoullou is a Research Scientist at CNTI., Ph.D., student with the University of Birmingham and employed as a lecturer at the Language Center of the University of Cyprus. Her Bachelor and Masters is in the use of computers and IT in the teaching of foreign languages. Her PhD involves exploitation of mobile learning systems and their integration within a foreign language curriculum.
Ms Elia Petridou has been working with the Future Worlds Center since 2004. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in New Jersey City University with a double major in Economics and Political Science, and a Masters in International Relations from McGill
31 University. In the organization she is coordinating projects on social issues like Media Literacy, EU Citizenship and Human Rights. She is the Coordinator of the Unit for the Rehabilitation of Victims of Torture and her work interests concentrate on Humanitarian and Development activities.
Ms Panayiota Shiakalli is a Research Scientist at CNTI for many years, currently also working towards her Masters Degree in Business administration and Human resources. She runs the experimental Cyber Kids in Nicosia, where most of the data of the New Media in Learning Unit is being collected. She served as Branch manager and Regional Manager for Cyber kids between 1997-2000.
Dr. Philip Snyder is a Senior Research associate and Consultant. Philip has a doctorate from Cornell University in anthropology and a specialization in the study of place. He served as executive director of several complex NGOs for more than twenty-three years, including a large, multifaceted center at Cornell University (the Center for Religion, Ethics and Social Policy), a regional land conservancy (Finger Lakes Land Trust), and the International Secretariat of the Global Ecovillage Network based in Denmark (www.gaia.org). He was awarded a Senior Fulbright Fellowship for the year of 1997 to coordinate the citizen conflict resolution program of the Fulbright Commission, working with Turkish and Greek communities in the divided island of Cyprus. Philip combines a background in all facets of organizational and program development together with ongoing research and work in sustainable development, environmental regeneration, and the human relationship with landscape.
Mr. George Tziapouras is a Member of the Board. He served as the Project Coordinator for the Technology For Peace project between 2000-2002 and subsequently as the Coordinator for a HasNa Inc (Washington DC) funded project known as Reconciliation. George Tziapouras is a Political Scientist. His academic background is in Political Science (BA) and International Politics (MA) from Kent State University, Ohio, USA. Prior to his involvement with the Project Technology for Peace he worked as Development Manager at Kompass, Cyprus, franchisee of Kompass International (www.kompass.com), which is considered to be the biggest B2B electronic information system in the world. His experience in conceptualizing and utilizing electronic infrastructures for developing and publicizing content enabled him to apply his knowledge in the service of Peace. Apart from his involvement with Technology for Peace, he is member of many bi-communal peace-building groups and initiatives as well as member of the Coordinating Committee of the Citizens' Movement for Re- unification and Co-existence.
Ms Tatjana Taraszow has a Master’s degree in psychology with the emphases on media, educational, and organizational psychology as well as political science as an elective subject. She is also a trained mediator. Mrs. Taraszow was with CNTI between August and October
32 2006 in the context of an ongoing collaboration between Prof. Peter Gerjets’ team at KMRC (Knowledge Media Research Center) and Yiannis Laouris, MD, PhD, MS at CNTI. During her stay at CNTI she was with her colleague Mrs. Julia Wahl in charge of the collaborative project, which runs under the title “multimedia-based learning programs for children with dyslexia.” In addition to this project, Mrs. Taraszow worked on the development of the scientific grounding and theory for the role that the “categorization ability” plays in learning.
Ms. Vipar Uthenpong has a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from The University of Texas – Austin and a Masters in Business Administration from Texas State University - San Marcos. She began working with CNTI in May 2006. Her activities included moving websites to the Mambo Content Management System, creating surveys to be taken over the Internet, and providing general computer support to the office. She has been involved in the technical side of the Talk of the Island, EU Citizenship website and call center, Cyprus NGDO Platform, Hibernation, and Taxonomy projects.
Ms Julia Anne Wahl has a degree in Psychology. She was a research assistant at Knowledge Management Research Center (KMRC) in Tuebingen, Germany. She was with CNTI between September 1st and November 30th,2006. Her activities included working in a project, which runs under the title “multimedia-based learning programs for children with dyslexia”. It consists of a series of studies using a specially designed multimedia learning environment. With respect to theoretical approaches and empirical findings in the field of multimedia learning and dyslexia its main goal is to develop an educational software adequate for dyslexic children, that will enhance their learning outcome.
Ms Kerstin Wittig has a M.A. in International Relations/ Peace and Conflict Studies, Educational Sciences and Islamic Sciences from the University of Tuebingen/Germany. She has conducted a 3-months field research for her M.A. dissertation on bi-communal activities in Cyprus in 2004. Kerstin has been with CNTI since October 2005. Her main responsibilities at CNTI include developing of new projects, drafting of project proposals, networking with European NGOs, especially in the field of Development Education. She is the local coordinator for two European projects, and she also coordinates the organization’s efforts to assist victims of human trafficking in Cyprus.
Mr. Hayat Hüsseyin Yasamsal is an Associate of the Organization since 2002. He is President of Olive Tree Branch. Had strong involvement in the Political and Civil Society environment of Cyprus and Europe for the past two decades. He founded and chaired the New Cyprus Party, the Rights and Freedoms Association, the Cyprus Peace Democracy and Human Rights Foundation. He served as coordinator with the International Association of Human Rights protection in Cyprus for the Council of Europe project on Confidence Building Measures in Cyprus entitled: “Actions of the
33 civil society for the promotion of a Human Rights Culture.” Hayat served also as local coordinator for the International Association of Human Rights protection in Cyprus of the Joint Project of the European Academy of Bolzano/Bozen (EURAC) and the German-Cypriot Forum “Civil Society Dialogue on Intercultural Co-operation in Cyprus.”
Volunteers & Research Partners in various Projects
Name Project
Matthew Quigley Talk of the Island – Stories in Cyberland
Natalie Faulkner Talk of the Island – Stories in Cyberland
Conor Jackson Talk of the Island – Stories in Cyberland
Cathal Watters Talk of the Island – Stories in Cyberland
Stephan Ege Talk of the Island – Stories in Cyberland
34 RESOURCES
C.N.T.I. is operational since 1993. It has a Board of eight members that includes personalities known to the Cypriot public and an International Advisory Board of five distinguished scientists (Germany, USA). Four full-time, eight part-time, seven external Associates, and more than 30 volunteer scientists participate in the various projects.
C.N.T.I. has been successful in securing funds for its research as well as peace and social intervention operations since its foundation in 1992. According to its 2005 financial statements its revenue was equal to CYP 80.258,00 (2004:78,988 1 CYP = 1,72 EURO), its Surplus (after taxation) for the year was CYP 4.219,00 (2004:398,00) and its accumulated reserves CYP 188.994,00 (200:177.818,00). Furthermore, the Institute maintains investments in public and private companies of total value CYP 84,237.
Current Financial Indicators (Last Financial Year)
Fixed assets 2.502,00 Current assets 102.255,00 Total assets 188.994,00
Capital and reserves 158.602,00 Creditors 30.392,00 Total liabilities 188.994,00
Turnover 158.602,00 Profit/loss on ordinary 4.219,00 activities Profit/loss 4.219,00
Most C.N.T.I. personnel and associates are registered as self-employed and are responsible for paying their social insurance contributions. Part of staff income is paid through international programs that directly fund activities of the Institute and might not appear in the financial statements.
35 Offices
CNTI is housed in a two-floor office located very conveniently at the business center of Nicosia at Promitheos 5 Street, behind the Hotel Cleopatra, just off Stasicratous Street and 50 m from Makarios Avenue.
Its premises are fully furnished with extra office spaces for visiting associates and part-time personnel. The office areas include two conference rooms, one study room with a small library and a small kitchenette and a restroom area. Besides the relevant experience and the physical resources, C.N.T.I. created since its inception an excellent network of partners and channels of communication both in Cyprus and abroad. For example in Cyprus, it has collaborated and received co-funding for many of its projects with the Ministry of Education and Culture, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Development Bank, the Youth Board, the Cyprus Telecommunica-tion Authority, the Bank of Cyprus, the Research Promotion Foundation and many others.
Probably the most important resource that CNTI has is the extensive network of committed, enthusiastic and well-educated peace builders and scientists from the two communities of Cyprus and overseas.
36