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Former Volunteer Commissioner Yiannis Giannakis admitted in court on Wednesday to using forged academic diplomas to secure his position. His confession sheds light on a scandal that has rocked the public sector, raising questions about oversight and accountability in Cyprus’ institutions.
Giannakis’ admissions mark a significant development in the trial, but with more charges pending, the full extent of his deception—and its consequences—remains to be seen.
Giannakis pleaded guilty to three of the nine charges against him, which relate to knowingly submitting fake high school and university diplomas to the Cyprus Youth Organization. While one charge was suspended, he still faces five other counts related to forgery and circulating falsified documents in another case.
Digital Footprints and Fake Credentials
During the trial, a police officer from the Cyber Crime Unit testified, presenting a computer, USB, and hard drives as evidence. Investigators discovered that Giannakis had repeatedly visited the website of San Diego State University in June 2021, specifically a page where users could request copies of their grades. However, it remains unclear whether he attempted to obtain fraudulent transcripts.
A video from 2015 also surfaced, featuring Giannakis discussing education and culture on the Ministry of Education’s website, where he falsely claimed to have studied civil engineering with a focus on political science.
Did He Buy a Degree?
During cross-examination, Giannakis' lawyer, Petros Stavrou, questioned the police officer about whether the investigation specifically searched for terms related to payments—suggesting an attempt to determine if the former commissioner had purchased a fake degree. The officer confirmed that Giannakis' searches also included semester grades but could not confirm if he attempted to alter or acquire a fake transcript.
What’s Next?
The case continues on April 8, when two more prosecution witnesses will testify. Giannakis’ admissions mark a significant development in the trial, but with more charges pending, the full extent of his deception—and its consequences—remains to be seen.
