The Human Resource Development Authority (HRDA) has approved a new package of multi-company training programmes to be delivered by Vocational Training Centres during the second half of 2026.
The programmes are designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and competencies of the country's workforce, with the aim of improving productivity, strengthening business competitiveness and increasing organisational resilience.
Green industry & AI
The training covers all sectors of the economy and a broad range of professions, with a particular focus on the green and digital transitions. Subjects include business management, emerging technologies and innovation, occupational health and safety, business continuity, trainer development, renewable energy, energy efficiency, artificial intelligence, robotics and digital skills at all levels, alongside specialised vocational training.
The programmes will be delivered by HRDA-certified Vocational Training Centres, using certified training facilities and accredited lifelong learning trainers. Applications must be submitted through the Ermis online system before a programme begins or before 25% of its total duration has been completed.
Training programmes
The approved schemes fall into three categories.
The standard multi-company training programmes are aimed at employers and self-employed professionals seeking to provide continuous training for employees or themselves to meet business needs. Registered unemployed people referred through the Public Employment Service are also eligible to participate to improve their employment prospects. The HRDA approved 4,024 training specifications, covering 3,313 programmes for an estimated 91,450 participants, with a total budget of €22 million.
The vital importance multi-company training programmes focus on meeting the specialist training needs of businesses, particularly managerial and scientific staff, as well as self-employed professionals. The courses cover specialised and innovative subjects considered strategic priorities for the Cypriot economy and combine classroom-based learning with in-company training delivered by experienced instructors. A total of 184 programmes have been approved for 5,150 participants, with funding of €10.1 million.
Trade unions
The continuing training programmes for trade union officials are intended to encourage trade unions and workers' organisations to provide further training for their representatives through Trade Union Training Centres. The programmes focus on issues related to their trade union responsibilities. The HRDA approved 54 training specifications covering 92 programmes for 2,600 participants, with a total budget of €200,000.
The authority said further information is available on its website, while unemployed people wishing to participate should contact Public Employment Service offices to obtain the necessary referral.
It also noted that the published lists are provisional and do not represent the final approved programme specifications for the second half of 2026, as the review of appeals against initially rejected applications is still ongoing. The final updated lists will be published once the appeals process has been completed.
Source: CNA
