On Friday, 20 March 2026, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Enterprise Greece – Invest and Trade signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Athens, in the presence of Rector Professor Gerasimos Siasos and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Haris Theoharis.
The agreement establishes a clear framework for enhancing the international presence of Greek businesses through specialised training, hands-on export skills development, and coordinated support for export-oriented entrepreneurship.
Representing the University, Professor Dimitris Kenourgios (Administration Council), Professor Aristeidis Samitas (Vice-Rector for Finance and Development), and Professor Emeritus Panagiotis Petrakis (Department of Economics) reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to linking academic expertise with market needs and strengthening its global engagement. Also in attendance were Antonis Zairis, Coordinator of the Deputy Minister’s Office, and Yannis Retsas on behalf of Enterprise Greece.
Under the agreement, the partners will jointly design and deliver targeted educational programmes, seminars, and training initiatives, drawing on the University’s academic strengths and the Centre of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning’s Supplementary Distance Education Programme (E-Learning). The collaboration also includes the development of digital courses, certification schemes, and jointly organised conferences and workshops on exports, international trade, and economic diplomacy.
A key priority is the further development of the Enterprise Greece Export Academy, aiming to equip export-oriented businesses with the skills needed to compete effectively in international markets and contribute to national economic growth.
The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and business practice, creating a structured channel for knowledge transfer and skills development. A joint working group will oversee implementation and ensure continuous evaluation of outcomes.
By leveraging its academic expertise and modern educational infrastructure, the University of Athens reaffirms its role as a driver of innovation, international engagement, and skills aligned with the country’s economic priorities.
In a statement, the Rector of the University of Athens, Professor Gerasimos Siasos, remarked: ‘The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding represents a significant milestone in the University of Athens’ international engagement strategy. By working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Enterprise Greece, we are reinforcing the connection between academic expertise and the practical needs of the economy, while contributing meaningfully to the development of skills vital for the country’s competitiveness on the global stage. The University of Athens remains steadfast in its commitment to producing research with tangible social and developmental impact, while actively fostering Greek entrepreneurship and supporting the internationalisation of the national economy’.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Haris Theoharis commented:
‘Today’s signing marks an important step forward in promoting the global reach of the Greek economy and enhancing the capabilities of our businesses abroad. This strategic partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and Enterprise Greece establishes a robust framework for training, guidance, and support for the country’s export sector. Our goal is to integrate economic diplomacy with knowledge, innovation, and entrepreneurship, equipping enterprises with the tools they need to thrive internationally. Strengthening the Enterprise Greece Export Academy is central to this effort, underlining our commitment to assist every Greek business aiming to expand beyond national borders. Together, we move ahead with clarity of purpose, strong collaboration, and a shared vision for a more dynamic, globally-oriented Greece’.
Photos: Dimitris Konstantinidis
