Greek students should have the right to enroll in English-language programs offered by public universities, said Gerasimos Siasos, Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA), during his address at the 6th OT Forum in Athens.
Siasos explained that while recently established private universities in Greece enjoy more flexibility in managing resources and can already accept Greek students into their English-language programs, public universities remain restricted by current legislation.
He argued that this framework needs to change: “It is only logical that a Greek student who does not succeed in national entrance exams should have the option to study at an English-language program — whether at a private or public Greek university,” he said, adding that such a policy would also keep tuition funds within the country.
EKPA Rises Among the World’s Top Universities
Highlighting the university’s growing global reputation, Siasos noted that EKPA has been ranked among the world’s top 200 universities for the first time, recently reaching 191st place in an international study.
He emphasized that the institution’s progress reflects ongoing efforts to expand research, innovation, and international partnerships — including the launch of EKPA’s first overseas branch in Cyprus, which hosts four schools and eight departments across Nicosia and Larnaca. “This marks the biggest step toward internationalization ever made by a Greek public university,” he said, expressing hope that other institutions will follow suit.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence and Innovation
Siasos also identified Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a central focus for Greek universities: “AI is not the future — it is the present,” he said. “We must prepare our students to use it effectively.”
He noted that EKPA has already introduced AI-related courses and built stronger links with the business sector. Over the past decade, the university has established 10 spin-off companies, four of which were founded this year, and secured 20 patents — achievements made possible through a supportive legal framework.
Strengthened Research and Economic Impact
The rector highlighted that the image of public universities in Greece has significantly improved, citing strong collaboration with pharmaceutical companies: “Nine out of ten clinical studies conducted in Greece are carried out in public universities,” he said, generating an estimated €100 million in annual revenue.
Partnerships and Education Against Fake News
EKPA now offers over 280 postgraduate programs, many of which include internships with major businesses, connecting students directly to the labor market.
Siasos also presented a new collaboration with media group Alter Ego, aimed at training journalists and citizens to identify fake news — an initiative he described as “innovative and socially vital.”
A Vision for a Global Greek University
Looking ahead, Siasos said the goal is to make EKPA a reference point for higher education in Greece and a hub for international students.
While welcoming the arrival of private universities as a “positive development,” he stressed that public institutions are not competitors but partners in elevating Greek higher education. “We are open and optimistic,” he concluded. “Our aim is not competition, but excellence.”
Source: tovima.com
OT FORUM - Η ΕΠΙΧΕΙΡΗΣΗ ΤΟΥ ΜΕΛΛΟΝΤΟΣ
6 και 7 Νοεμβρίου 2025 | Μικρό Χρηματιστήριο
ΔΕΙΤΕ ΤΟ ΠΡΟΓΡΑΜΜΑ ΚΑΙ ΤΟΥΣ ΟΜΙΛΗΤΕΣ
