The Higher Technical Institute of Cyprus is a public tertiary educational institution established in 1968 as a joint project between the Government of Cyprus and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Up to 1973 it was funded both by the Cyprus Government and the special UN fund. Since 1973 the Cyprus Government (through the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance) has assumed the exclusive responsibility for its operation. Lessons are taught in the English language and most courses last for 3 years. Due to the technical nature of the degrees offered there is a considerable time spent by pupils in practical experience within the relevant industries. There are 5 main faculties offering a variety of degrees: The Institute also has an active research programme and offers consultancy services to the local industry. In December 2003, the House of Representatives passed a bill (Law 198(I) 2003), establishing a new academic institution, the Cyprus University of Technology. According to the above Law, the HTI (along with several other similar schools) will be integrated within the new University.