Who we are
CARDET is the leading research and development centre in Cyprus and a primary stakeholder in the local adult education landscape. For over two decades, the organisation has served as a strategic partner to public authorities and civil society, playing a decisive role in shaping lifelong learning and non-formal education policies across the island and the Euro-Mediterranean region.
CARDET specializes in designing and implementing evidence-based initiatives that promote the upskilling and reskilling of adults, with a particular focus on digital transformation and social inclusion. By bridging the gap between academic research and practical application, the organisation develops innovative tools that strengthen the capacities of educators and learners alike. Its work is deeply rooted in supporting national strategies and European priorities to ensure accessible, high-quality education for all.
With a track record of more than 500 projects implemented in over 40 countries, CARDET leverages its extensive international network to bring global best practices to Cyprus. Through these efforts, the organisation has empowered more than three million people, reinforcing its position as a pillar of social innovation and a dedicated advocate for the transformative power of adult education.
What we do
CARDET implements a holistic approach to adult education, focusing on five core pillars:
- Health and Well-being: Developing initiatives that foster mental health, well-being, and health literacy for adults across all life stages.
- Digital Transformation & Digital Skills: Bridging the digital divide by providing training in digital literacy, AI, and the effective use of technology in learning.
- Education and Capacity Building: Empowering educators and adult learners with the pedagogical tools and transversal skills necessary for personal and professional growth.
- Sustainable Development: Advancing the SDGs through community-based education, environmental awareness, and the promotion of a circular economy.
- Social Justice & Inclusion: Promoting equity, diversity, and the integration of marginalized groups through tailored educational programmes.
Through rigorous research, training, capacity building, and active policy engagement, CARDET translates theory into practice. CARDET fosters robust partnership development at local and international levels to create scalable educational solutions that address the evolving needs of modern society.
Best practices
Projects
Cyprus Lifelong Learning Strategy In partnership with EAEA and the Ministry of Education we have developed the Cyprus LLL strategy.
DIMA 2.0: A strategic initiative and toolkit designed to help adult education providers develop, implement, and monitor effective adult learning strategies at a national and European level.
PartnerUP: This project promotes “Upskilling Pathways” by building cooperation mechanisms between stakeholders to increase adult participation in lifelong learning.
Supporting Mental Health Resilience among Youth in Cyprus(UNICEF/EU): A flagship initiative implemented in collaboration with UNICEF and the Cypriot Ministry of Health to strengthen the mental health resilience of young people in Cyprus through participatory research, youth-led policy recommendations, and specialized training for educators and professionals.
Adult DigitalUp: A national-scale project supporting Cypriot authorities in improving the digital literacy of adults through blended learning and innovative stakeholder resources.
eProtect: Awarded the 2025 European Innovative Teaching Award by the European Commission, this project enhances the digital safety of senior citizens by providing tailored training on data protection and ICT tools.
20 years of CARDET: “We continue to shape a better world”