Ambassador Lodge: Non-state universities in Greece are a foundation for the future

The British Ambassador to Greece, Matthew Lodge, commented particularly positively on the developments over the establishment of non-state universities in Greece, emphasising the importance of cooperation with British academic institutions.

Lodge appeared particularly pleased with the British presence on the list of licensed educational institutions. This is the second time Britain is participating in the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF), he said, adding that this year British institutions are more determined and stronger, and “we are particularly pleased with what is happening in Greece with the establishment of non-state universities, as well as the fact that three of the four that have received licenses in recent weeks are in collaboration with British universities.”

Two of the three institutions to which he refered concern CITY – Legal Entity of University Education and European Branch of the University of YORK (parent institution The University of YORK), the American University of Anatolia – Legal Entity of University Education (parent institution The Open University, based in Great Britain) and The University of Keele, Greece – Legal Entity of University Education (parent institution The University of Keele). In fact, the first two will operate in Thessaloniki.

He also pointed out that education has been a strategic priority for Britain in recent years, especially after Brexit. “Education is one of the three main pillars on which we focus our joint efforts for development and closer cooperation,” he stated.

Asked about the possibility of seeing more British universities operating in Greece, the ambassador was clear: “There is certainly interest,” while praising the National Authority for Higher Education for the strict criteria it sets. As he said, it is important that students and their parents know that the quality is high, as it really is. “We are waiting for other universities. We are optimistic,” the British ambassador to Greece pointed out.

Rise of British tourists – traditional ties in shipping

The British Ambassador also referred to tourism, underlining the upward trend in visits by British tourists to Greece.

A significant increase in the number of tourists visiting Greece from the United Kingdom was recorded this year. This is a very positive element that further strengthens the ties between the two countries, he said.

Another sector in which Greece and Britain maintain a long tradition and close ties is shipping, he noted: Great Britain and Greece are two outward-looking shipping countries with a commercial mentality. They are not only friends and partners in NATO – they also have many opportunities and possibilities for even closer cooperation.

Concluding, he expressed hope for the further strengthening of cooperation in this strategically important sector.

APE