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CYENS Centre of Excellence is a leading Research and Innovation hub specializing in Interactive Media, Smart Systems, and Emerging Technologies. As the only organization in Cyprus dedicated to immersive technologies, it plays a vital role in advancing knowledge and facilitating technology transfer across the region. This Centre is the result of a unique collaboration between three public universities—the University of Cyprus, the Cyprus University of Technology.

Ugne Buraciene appointed to the Board of CYENS Centre of Excellence

Date

16th October 2025

Location

Limassol

Ugne Buraciene, Group CEO of payabl., has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director to the Board of the CYENS Centre of Excellence, Cyprus’ leading research and innovation hub for interactive media, smart systems, and emerging technologies.

CYENS was established in 2018 as an EU-funded RISE initiative under the coordination of the Municipality of Nicosia, and is today co-chaired by the Mayor of Nicosia, Charalambos Prountzos. Bringing together a consortium of five academic institutions, CYENS is recognised for advancing world-class research and applying novel technologies to solve pressing real-world challenges across health, energy, tourism, transport, agriculture, and the built environment.

As Group CEO of payabl., a European fintech specialising in acquiring, business accounts, and card issuing through its unified platform, Ugne brings extensive experience in scaling financial technology businesses and building resilient organisations. Her appointment reflects CYENS’ commitment to strengthening the link between research, industry, and society.

Commenting on her appointment, Ugne Buraciene, Group CEO of payabl. and Non-Executive Director to the Board of the CYENS, said: “CYENS plays a vital role in Cyprus’ innovation ecosystem, creating a bridge between academic research and real-world application. I am honoured to join its Board and contribute to advancing its mission. Innovation thrives when diverse expertise comes together, and I look forward to supporting CYENS in shaping technologies that have a lasting impact on people, communities, and businesses.”

Charalambos Prountzos, Mayor of Nicosia and Chairman of CYENS, added: “We are delighted to welcome Ms Buraciene to the CYENS Board. Her leadership in fintech and international business experience will be an important asset as we continue to grow CYENS as a world-class research and innovation centre.”

With over 120 researchers and 15 multidisciplinary groups, CYENS has delivered more than 200 publications since 2022 and spearheaded projects in cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, healthcare, and immersive technologies.

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