In a significant initiative that reinforces the connection between academia and the business world, EY Greece and the Master’s Program “Bioeconomy, Circular Economy and Sustainable Development” of the University of Piraeus signed a five-year memorandum of understanding. The signing ceremony took place on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the EY Greece headquarters in Maroussi.
The partnership aims to promote education and research in the critical fields of sustainable development, circular economy, and bioeconomy, aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The memorandum was signed by EY Greece’s CEO, Mr. Giorgos Papadimitriou, the Rector of the University of Piraeus, Professor Michail Sfakianakis, and the Director of the Master’s Program, Professor Konstantina Kottaridi. Present at the event were Markos Tselekounis, Associate Professor at the Department of Economics of the University of Piraeus, and Ms. Kiara Konti, Partner and Head of Sustainable Development Services at EY Greece.
Bridging theory and practice
The agreement includes joint initiatives such as the creation of training programs — most notably a course on “Double Materiality / CSRD” through the university’s Center for Lifelong Learning — cooperation on European research projects, internship opportunities at EY for master’s students, and participation in EY’s educational and training seminars. Furthermore, the agreement foresees the awarding of scholarships by EY to support postgraduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral research.
Statements of vision and purpose
Mr. Papadimitriou emphasized that “the collaboration with the University of Piraeus strengthens the link between theory and practice and better prepares young scientists to meet the challenges of today’s labor market, while advancing sustainable and equitable growth.”
Likewise, Rector Sfakianakis noted that “this strategic partnership enhances the university’s mission to connect academic knowledge with market needs, fostering innovation and promoting sustainable entrepreneurship to the benefit of students and society.”
Professor Kottaridi stated, “This partnership is not merely a formal act, but a conscious commitment to address the complex challenges of our era through education, research, and innovation. It reflects our shared responsibility to contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 17 on building strong partnerships.”
EY: A global leader in sustainability and innovation
EY (Ernst & Young) is one of the world’s leading professional services organizations, operating in over 150 countries and offering a broad range of audit, advisory, tax, and strategic services. With a strong focus on sustainable development, EY leverages advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and big data, to help clients adapt to today’s challenges and generate long-term value. In Greece, EY has established a strong presence in the fields of ESG and sustainability, providing tailored solutions for transitioning to a greener and more responsible business model.
A shared vision for a sustainable future
The collaboration between EY and the University of Piraeus is more than just another agreement between academia and the private sector. It is a meaningful step toward building a more resilient, greener, and fairer economy. At a time of increasing environmental and social challenges, such partnerships carry critical importance for the future.