His Eminence Metropolitan Seraphim of Piraeus officiated a Blessing Service marking the beginning of the new academic year.
The Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michail Sfakianakis, hailed the ceremony by highlighting the elevated morale that characterized the Greek people at that time.
“In 1940,” he emphasized, “although we were a poor country without sufficient equipment and arms to face the fierce armies of the Italians and the Germans, we possessed exceptional morale. The ‘No’ of a nation became the spark that led us to resist far beyond our size and resources and to endure the hardships of the occupation.”
In closing, he noted “We strengthen our morale today as well, and we always remember the heroes who shaped our present.”

Professor of International Relations and Strategic Studies in the Department of International and European Studies Konstantinos Koliopoulos delivered the keynote address, on the topic: “Strategic Leadership in the Epic of 1940.”
Professor Koliopoulos emphasized that the epic battles of 1940 - 41 were the result of the people’s high morale, as well as of farsighted and decisive strategic leadership. The country’s preparation and the decision of Ioannis Metaxas to reject the Italian demands were crucial for success against a much stronger opponent.
He also stressed that the Greek army operated with Staff Planning, flexibility, and excellent administrative care, which allowed the rapid transition from defense to offense. This strategy, he noted, enabled both soldiers and civilians to demonstrate their heroism and resilience.
“As we did then, with meagre means, we can do it again today,” he concluded.
Among those present at the event were representatives of the Municipality of Piraeus, Mr. Georgios Papamanolis - Dozas, President of the Piraeus Chamber of Small and Medium-Sized Industries, the Vice Rectors, members of the University Council, members of the academic and administrative staff, and students of the University.