Recognizing the impact of its activities on the wider community and stakeholders, the University of Nicosia (UNIC) designed and implemented a formal mentoring programme. MENTOR is a structured community engagement initiative serving both the University’s social outreach pillar and broader societal needs. It is an effective tool by which short and long-term social benefits, linked to the Sustainable Development Goals, are achieved. It works by utilizing a mechanism developed by specific partners to identify children from vulnerable groups and connect them with University Students or Alumni (Mentors). Children (ages 6 to 13) who grow up in families from low socioeconomic backgrounds, having reduced or no opportunities for schooling, as well as personal and social development, are paired with appropriate Mentors. These Mentors work voluntarily after being carefully selected and trained according to strict criteria and procedures. UNIC offers training, ongoing support and supervision to facilitate their role as friends, role models and mentors for these children. Mentors form important relationships with children as they deal with their school homework and engage in many other experiential and interactive activities, including playing in the park, participating in sports activities, visiting museums, etc. These mentoring relationships protect and prevent the children (tomorrow's citizens) from delinquent behaviour, therefore enhancing their opportunities for personal and professional success. At the same time, Mentors experience some of the country's most important social problems. With that, they understand and cultivate the social responsibility that, as tomorrow's leaders, they will be called upon to incorporate into their professional positions.
