Famagusta autism centre to be completed within 18 months, president says

A model autism centre in Famagusta will be completed within 18 months at a cost of €4.5 million, President Nikos Christodoulides announced on Sunday.

Speaking in Ayia Napa after taking part in the “Run for Autism” charity event, Christodoulides said the government has moved beyond initial commitments and into implementation.

The centre, first announced in February 2025 during a regional meeting in Paralimni, is being developed in cooperation with the Ayia Napa municipality.

Christodoulides said there is “a great need, especially in the province of Famagusta, to address the challenges arising from the needs of our compatriots with autism”, emphasising that proceeds from the charity race will also support related services in the area.

The annual event, organised by the Autism Support Association, has grown significantly since its launch five years ago.

According to the president, this year’s race attracted more than 5,000 participants, including athletes from 20 countries.

He described it as “an effort that was started by volunteers, not at all for profit”, with all proceeds directed towards supporting individuals with autism.

He also spoke briefly about his personal routine, saying daily exercise is essential to managing the demands of office.

“We train every day for about one to one and a half hours in the morning, before going to the office, because it is a necessary condition for me to be able to meet the obligations of my duties”.