President of the Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou a reception was held this evening at the Presidential Palace in honor of representatives of thirty American universities on the occasion of their visit to Greece in the context of the Lighthouse 2022 Summit: Greek-US Cooperation in Higher Education, in the presence of the Minister of Education and Religion Nikis Kerameos, as well as the rectors of Greek universities.

During her greetings, Ms. Sakellaropoulou emphasized that “The Faros Summit is a powerful symbol of the relationship between the United States and Greece” and noted that “Our two countries share close cultural and historical ties. The foundations of American democracy can be traced back to Athenian democracy, which was the inspiration for the vision embodied in the Federalist documents. At the same time, Greek communities in the US are among the most important in the Greek diaspora worldwide.”

He also emphasized that this is the largest American delegation of the Institute of International Education in a particular country, and added that “Greeks attach special importance to education, not excluding universities, which are traditionally considered the most important factor in social mobility and development.” and noted that “by studying them, you will feel the high quality of the faculty, the talent and inspiration of a new generation of students.”

In the same context, he noted that “this transatlantic bridge is a major educational challenge for Greek universities and greatly enhances their international image. The interaction between American and Greek professors, students and researchers is aimed at expanding and deepening scientific dialogue between the two countries in order to promote academic innovation and related achievements, as well as increasing student and staff mobility and introducing new programs and degrees.

He also stated that “collaboration in areas traditionally associated with Greece, such as classical studies and archeology, is extremely important” and added: “I am pleased to see that these are not the only areas that are flourishing, as joint programs and research also has place in immigration studies, climate change, engineering, business administration, finance, and other areas.”

Speaking about the end of her trip to Greece, she expressed her hope that in the coming weeks, months and years they will continue to honor and care for the seeds sown from this visit, while at the same time developing relationships with their Greek counterparts. appropriating the results of this wonderful collaboration.

In conclusion, the President of the Republic emphasized that in order for Greece to become an educational center attractive to teachers around the world, strategic interaction with the world’s leading universities is necessary, and she noted: “New and innovative educational opportunities and opportunities are emerging. thanks to the unique value of transnational cooperation and interpersonal connections”.

Source: RES-IPE