The Journey to Alasia

The island of Cyprus has been considered one of the most important centers of culture, trade and civilization in the eastern Mediterranean throughout history. The island, which has attracted the attention of many civilizations with its geopolitical location, natural resources and rich cultural structure, was referred to as "Alashia" in ancient sources. Today, it is widely accepted among historians and archaeologists that the name Alashia is the ancient equivalent of Cyprus. Alasia is described as a “sea country” in Hittite, Egyptian and Assyrian written documents. Mentioned in diplomatic correspondence between the Hittite King Hattusili III and the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II, this mystical island was also an important center of trade and mineral resources (especially copper). In this context, Alasia became not only a geographical description but also a historical and cultural symbol. As stated by mythology researchers G. Grant and J. Hazel in their work Who's Who of Mythologie published by Seghers , Hittite and Assyrian sources clearly define Cyprus as "Alashia". The fact that this ancient name is the source of inspiration for our university is an indication of our aim to build a historical bridge.

The Ozok Group , which forms the basis of the International University of Alasia , is a group of companies that has been operating in many different sectors in Cyprus for over 40 years and stands out with its reliability and visionary structure. It has contributed to the economic and social development of the island with its investments in many areas such as furniture, automotive, construction, student dormitories, accommodation and education. The founder of the group , Mr. Ali Özok , as a member of one of the most established families in Cyprus, established the Özok Group in order to carry his knowledge and experience in the business world to the future and quickly turned it into one of the leading investment groups on the island. Today, the Özok Group sets an example not only with economic investments but also with its social responsibility projects and support for education.

Özok Group's vision in education was shaped by the successful completion of student dormitories and campus complexes ; this experience was further culminated in the decision to establish the International University of Alasia in 2019. This decision not only established an educational institution but also embodied a mission to integrate Cyprus's historical values into universal education. The university's founding is no coincidence; it was the result of a long-term strategy, a strong institutional heritage, and a contemporary approach to education. Inspired by ancient Alashia, the university's name connects the past with the future, aiming to provide younger generations with a universal perspective without breaking away from their own cultural roots.

The International University of Alasia project is led by Mr. Hasan Özok, a third-generation member of the Özok family . Hasan Özok, a well-versed in the modern business world, embracing contemporary education, and possessing a visionary management approach, has closely monitored and strategically guided all processes since the university's founding. Under his leadership, the International University of Alasia is positioned not only as a higher education institution, but also as a pioneer in the fields of innovation, research, entrepreneurship and social contribution.

With the aim of becoming a center of civilization like the one it bears the name of, Alasia International University, it continues its educational activities with a structure that protects cultural heritage, supports scientific research and prioritizes social responsibility. Our university is on its way to becoming an institution that makes a difference in the region, not only in Cyprus but also internationally, with its qualified academic staff , modern campus infrastructure , entrepreneurship support , international student profile and social impact projects .

Blending thousands of years of historical heritage of Cyprus with the educational approach of the modern world, Alasia International University aims to provide its students not only with academic knowledge but also with lifelong ethical values, a multicultural perspective and global competitiveness. We continue our journey with an approach that sees each of our students as an individual value, aims to bring out their talents and raise them as individuals who will contribute to society.

Our university aims to revive the millennia-old spirit of Alashia and combine this spirit with modern education; it continues on its path with the values of academic excellence, cultural commitment and social responsibility. The International University of Alasia is a contemporary , visionary and inspiring institution that prepares young minds from Cyprus and around the world for the future, drawing inspiration from its historical heritage .