On Sunday, September the 8th, 2024, in Thessaloniki at the International Exhibition, a cooperation protocol was signed between the University of Piraeus (UniPi) and the National Center for Research and Technological Development (CERTH) for the joint undertaking and implementation of actions in matters of innovation, scientific research and its exploitation in the critical sectors of energy and digital transition, shipping, transport and logistics and tourism.
Specifically, the Cooperation Protocol between the two bodies will be based - among others - on the axes of creating training programs based on research and innovation and adapted to the needs of the market, exploring opportunities to leverage resources from national or European financial instruments, the joint utilization of the staff and the infrastructures of the two institutions, as well as the undertaking of initiatives for the development of research infrastructures in cutting-edge fields.
The Cooperation Protocol was signed by the Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michael Sfakianakis and the Chairman of the Board of CERTH, Dr. Dimitrios Tzovaras. Present at the signing was the Vice President of the Board of Directors of CERTH, Dr. Evangelos Bekiaris, the Research Director Dr. Vasilios Kappatos and Professor Maria Boile.
The rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michael Sfakianakis, noted: "The University of Piraeus follows targeted strategies of extroversion and networking with research institutions, leaders in their field, so that we can consolidate, utilize and jointly implement innovative actions in cutting-edge research areas and innovation, to create channels of interconnection of bodies that produce knowledge, for the benefit of our students and graduates as well as society in general".
For his part, the Chairman of the Board Dr. Dimitrios Tzovaras underlined: "Focusing on the common interest of both sides for the implementation of research and educational actions and initiatives, which highlight technological innovation in a wide range of fields, the signing of this Cooperation Protocol leverages the know-how of the two entities and aims to promote cutting-edge research by creating an environment that favours knowledge and scientific excellence for the benefit of society.