The 2nd ECT Forum – European Competencies and Technologies took place on Thursday, October 8^th, 2026, at the UNESCO Amphitheatre of the University of Nicosia, bringing together over 100 participants from academia, industry, research and the technology sector to discuss the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies on education, skills and the future of work.

Organized by the non-profit European Centre for Emerging Competencies and Technologies (ECECT), supported by DITEC – Didactic Technologies for IT Education, a European Erasmus+ project examining how IT education can respond more effectively to the changing needs of industry.

The event explored how rapid developments in AI and emerging technologies are transforming the way people live, learn and work. Through presentations, discussions and thematic panels, participants exchanged perspectives on future skills, the relationship between education and industry, and the opportunities and challenges arising from technological change.

Participants and representation

ECT Forum 2026 brought together participants from academia, education and research (42%), industry and services (26%), students (21%) and non-profit organizations (11%).

The Forum also attracted international interest, with at least 15% of registered participants affiliated with organizations outside Cyprus, highlighting its reach beyond the local community.

Connecting education, research and industry

A key focus of ECT Forum 2026 was the need to strengthen cooperation between education providers and industry in response to changing skills requirements. The Programme also featured European research and education initiatives, including the Erasmus+ project DITEC – Didactic Technologies for IT Education, which explores ways to better connect IT education with the evolving needs of industry.

The discussions highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaboration to help prepare students and professionals for a rapidly changing technological environment.

Continuing the conversation

ECT Forum 2026 reaffirmed the value of bringing together stakeholders from different sectors to exchange ideas and explore shared challenges. ECECT aims to continue supporting dialogue and collaboration around emerging competencies, digital skills, Artificial Intelligence and new technologies through future initiatives and events.

ECECT extends its sincere thanks to all speakers, moderators, panelists, partners and participants who contributed to the Forum’s success.

Event photographs and further updates are available at ectforum.eu.

Media contact

ECT Forum – European Competencies and Technologies
Email: contact@ectforum.eu
Website: ectforum.eu