Nicosia, Cyprus – July 9, 2025 – Medicover Genetics Cyprus welcomed students, teachers, and parents from across the island to celebrate the winners of the 2025 National DNA Essay Contest. Held at the company’s state-of-the-art genetic testing laboratories, the event highlighted excellence in science education and offered students a firsthand look into the future of healthcare through genetics.
This year, the contest theme, 'The discovery of DNA has led to significant advancements in different fields of health and well-being...', encouraged students to reflect on how genetic knowledge supports informed family planning and preventive care. A particular focus was placed on the role of carrier screening, a key area of expertise for Medicover Genetics.
Honouring Young Scientific Talent
During the ceremony, Dr. Marios Ioannides, Managing Director of Medicover Genetics Cyprus, presented awards to the top essayists and led an educational tour of the laboratory.
“We are honoured to welcome these bright young minds and help nurture their passion for science,” said Dr. Ioannides. “Educational initiatives like this play a vital role in fostering the next generation of leaders in medicine and research.”
Also in attendance was Dr. Panayiota Mylona, Biology Inspector at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of Cyprus, who praised the initiative for effectively translating complex scientific concepts into engaging educational opportunities:
“This initiative brings genetics closer to the classroom and empowers students to engage with real-world healthcare challenges in a meaningful and inspiring way.”
Inside the Lab: A Glimpse into Genetic Innovation
Following the ceremony, students, along with their teachers and parents, participated in a guided tour of the Medicover Genetics facilities. The experience showcased the company’s work in genetic diagnostics, including areas such as carrier screening, reproductive health, rare disease detection, and oncogenetics. This immersive visit gave participants valuable insight into how genetic testing technologies are helping shape the future of healthcare locally and globally.
2025 DNA Essay Contest: Award-Winning Students
First Place
• Eleni Kirmizi – The English School, Nicosia
Second Place
• Rafael Ioannou – Kykkos Lyceum, Paphos
Honourable Mentions
• Mariam Ezziden Abdulkarim – PASCAL Private Secondary School, Nicosia
• Danae Katerina Chari – Apostolos Marcos Lyceum, Nicosia
• Constantinos Matheou – Xenion High School, Famagusta
• Marianna Pattichi – Livadia Regional Lyceum, Larnaca
• Evaggelia Economou – IMS Private School, Limassol
Read the winning essays on our website here.
This event underscores Medicover Genetics’ mission to advance genetic diagnostics while inspiring future scientists through education, mentorship, and community engagement. We thank all participants, teachers, and supporters who contributed to the success of the 2025 National DNA Essay Contest, and we look forward to continuing this meaningful tradition in the years to come.
