The Cyprus Evkaf Administration Continues to Illuminate the Future with its Legacy from the Past on its 455th Anniversary

This year, we are proud to celebrate the 455th anniversary of the Cyprus Evkaf Administration, which has served the people of Cyprus for centuries and left deep imprints on the social, cultural, and economic fabric of society. At the same time, we are marking the 70th anniversary of the transfer of foundation properties and administration from the British Colonial Administration to the Turkish Cypriot community.

Foundations are the legacy of the past and the guarantee of the future. The tradition of foundations, stretching from 1571 to the present day, is not only the history of an institution; it is also the institutionalized form of goodness, solidarity, and social justice in these lands. Our ancestors, in accordance with their beliefs, built a "foundation civilization" by dedicating their property and possessions to the service of society; this civilization has served everyone for centuries, regardless of religion, language, or race.

The foundation civilization is one of the most beautiful manifestations of solidarity, sharing, and social responsibility. Foundations established in Cyprus since the Ottoman period have served for centuries in a wide range of areas, from education and health to supporting those in need and maintaining religious structures.

With the British Colonial Administration beginning to govern the island in 1878, the foundation properties in Cyprus faced neglect and mismanagement for many years. However, as a result of determined struggles in 1956, the foundation administration returned to the control of the Turkish Cypriot community and regained its original mission.

Today, the Cyprus Evkaf Administration continues its work with the strength it derives from its roots and with an understanding appropriate to the needs of the age. As the Cyprus Evkaf Administration, we consider it our duty not only to protect this deep-rooted heritage but also to carry it into the future in a way that is appropriate to the needs of the age. The work we carry out in a wide range of areas, from education to social assistance, from the preservation of cultural heritage to sustainable projects, is the most concrete demonstration that the spirit of foundations is a living value.

Our institution, which guides the future while preserving its historical heritage, continues to build a strong bridge between the past and the future.

On this significant anniversary, we remember with respect and gratitude the founders of the Cyprus Evkaf Administration, all its administrators who have contributed to its success, and the philanthropists who keep the spirit of the foundation alive; and we once again emphasize that we will continue to move forward with the same determination in serving our community.

“Be tolerant so that you may be tolerated.”