Universities in Cyprus are on heightened alert following rapid developments in the Middle East and recent strikes that have caused concern on the island. Through announcements and emails to students and staff, the University of Cyprus announced the activation and operation of certified Civil Defence shelters within the campus.

The update, which also concerns Greek students studying in Cyprus, is precautionary and aims—as emphasized—to provide responsible information and safeguard the university community.

With the situation in Cyprus remaining fluid after the March 2 drone attacks by Iran against the British bases in Akrotiri, concern is running high. Given the circumstances, air travel has also been affected, with mass flight cancellations and restrictions creating additional uncertainty for thousands of students traveling between Cyprus and Greece. Airline tickets for return to Greece have reportedly already sold out among Greek students.

Where the shelters are located

According to the announcement, certified shelters are operating on campus in cooperation with the Cyprus Civil Defence. The emails received by students describe in detail the assembly points and the action plan in the event a siren is activated. The messages clearly stress that the information is precautionary and aims to enhance preparedness, not to cause alarm.

Security personnel have been designated to guide students and staff should the relevant protocols be implemented, while the institutions assure that they remain in constant communication with the competent state authorities for immediate coordination.

The SafeCY app

At the same time, authorities recommend the use of the free SafeCY app, available for Android and iPhone. Through the app, users can:

• Locate the nearest shelter based on their current location.
• Search for shelters by address or postal code.
• View shelters mapped in real time.
• Receive basic safety instructions and emergency guidance.

The app is available in Greek and English, facilitating both Cypriot and international students.

What students should do in an emergency

The instructions shared are as follows:

• Remain calm.
• Immediately follow the instructions of security staff.
• Proceed in an orderly manner to the nearest shelter.
• Avoid using elevators.
• Take a mobile phone, water, and any essential medication, if immediately available.

It is emphasized that the University remains in constant communication with the relevant state services and is implementing all prescribed measures to ensure its smooth operation.

Greek students and the possibility of repatriation

Greek students, who make up about one-third of the student population in Cyprus, are directly affected by the developments as the climate of uncertainty persists, particularly in light of difficulties in air travel.

According to information so far, the Republic of Cyprus has prioritized planning for the possible repatriation of citizens and students in the event of further escalation. Although no mass evacuation plan has been activated, authorities are keeping all scenarios open in cooperation with the Greek side.

At the same time—despite the strained geopolitical climate—university authorities seek to convey a message of calm. They underline that the activation of Civil Defence procedures falls within a framework of precautionary planning applied internationally during periods of heightened tension. Cyprus, due to its geostrategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean, is directly affected by developments in the Middle East. However, the existence of institutionalized civil protection mechanisms, cooperation with state services, and timely information to the university community form a network of organized preparedness.