Marilena Karyolemou

Marilena Karyolemou is a Professor at the Department of Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies, University of Cyprus. She holds a doctorate in Linguistics from the University of Paris V-René Descartes. Her research focuses on sociolinguistics, language policy, and the revitalization of endangered languages, particularly Cypriot Arabic. Dr. Karyolemou has held significant roles including Coordinator of the School of Modern Greek (1998–2001, 2004–2007, 2011–2012), member of the Language Center Steering Committee, and representative in EU language policy networks like EFNIL.

Her academic contributions span teaching linguistics, sociolinguistics, and minority languages. She collaborates with institutions globally, including Paris and Aegean Universities. Notably, she leads the Ministry of Education’s initiative to document and revive Cypriot Arabic since 2012, serving as head of the Experts’ Academic Committee. Her work bridges theoretical linguistics with applied sociopolitical challenges in language preservation.

• Education:
  • Maîtrise in Modern Literature (University of Champagne-Ardennes, France)
  • Maîtrise in Language Sciences (University of Paris V, France)
  • PhD in Linguistics (University of Paris V, 1994)

Dr. Karyolemou’s research emphasizes endangered languages’ codification, language policy in education, and community-driven revitalization. She has authored over 50 publications, including works on Cypriot Arabic’s phonology, language contact, and sociolinguistic frameworks in Cyprus. Her international engagements include visiting professorships at Paris VII and collaborative projects on Mediterranean language policies.

Her advocacy extends to Cypriot Arabic’s archival documentation and policy frameworks, reflecting a commitment to cultural heritage preservation. She is a founding member of the Cyprus Linguistics Society (2002) and Cyprus Association for Bilingualism (2018), furthering interdisciplinary dialogue on multilingualism.