Artificial intelligence is a key pillar for digital transition, Research Deputy Minister Nicodemos Damianou has said, adding that the National AI Strategy is in the final preparation stages.
Speaking at a press conference on the Annual Report and Planning of the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy 2026, the Deputy Minister noted that 'AI for Government' solutions for the public sector are being strengthened, adding that AI is already being integrated into systems such as Ippodamos and iJustice.
At the same time, he added, new infrastructures are being developed, such as 'Pharos-CY', access to 'Daedalus' and the creation of a national supercomputer in collaboration with NVIDIA. AI is also being expanded to education, with the implementation of the AI Act.
Speaking on 16 February, Damianou said that in 2025 more than 75 services were developed, almost double the number compared to 2024 while in 2026 more than 100 services were expected to be delivered.
He added that in 2025, citizens used the digital services of the population register a total of 32,395 times.
Also in 2025 more than 13,000 digital services related to conscription issues were provided digitally, 16,074 electronic applications were also made for student sponsorship 7,076 people applied for Solidarity Fund payments and were delivered the money, with the total amount amounting to more than 71 million euro.
In 2025 more than 90,000 student profiles were created via e-ΔΕΑ while 65,000 applications were made. Damianou also made a very detailed presentation of the services offered at post offices, noting also that the government will further upgrade existing services such as 'Tax For All'.
For 2026, the upgrade of the Road Transport Department system, the Social Insurance system and the Police communication platform are sheduled.
The Deputy Minister also referred to support projects for the health sector.
As regards Cyprus' accession to the Schengen Area and the European Union Entry-Exit System, he clarified that it is part of the Schengen package of projects, but it is not a prerequisite for our accession.
He also referred to the 'Digital Citizen' application noting that in 2025 the number of registered users was more than 135,000.
Government portal gov.cy receives over 1 million visits per month, he also said.
(Source: CNA)
