The academic year 2026-2027 begins with the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens at a particularly significant moment in its long history, as it marks 190 years of uninterrupted teaching and scholarship. The University’s 190th anniversary is a landmark in the history of modern Greece and a major milestone for the country’s first university – an institution whose history is inseparable from the intellectual and cultural development of modern Greece, the advancement of science, and the enduring values of education, knowledge and service to society.
The University’s sustained commitment to educational quality, academic excellence and innovative research is evident in its growing international standing. The University of Athens is now ranked among the world’s top 200 universities, reflecting its international profile and long-standing contribution to the advancement of knowledge and scholarship.
This international recognition is, above all, a testament to the quality, hard work and dedication of everyone who is part of our academic community. It is the result of a collective and sustained effort, while also placing an even greater responsibility on us to move forward with determination and purpose, strengthening our commitment to excellence and innovation while further enhancing our international presence.
At the same time, the University of Athens continues to broaden its international outlook through academic partnerships with leading institutions around the world. The establishment of the Cyprus Branch represents another historic and strategically important step in the University’s internationalisation, deepening our links with Cyprus and opening up new opportunities for education, research and academic collaboration across Europe and Asia.
In this landmark year, the University of Athens takes on the Presidency of the Hellenic Universities Rectors’ Conference, assuming a role of particular importance for the future of higher education in Greece. In this role, we will contribute to meaningful debate on the future of universities in Greece. With a commitment to evidence, constructive dialogue and a clear sense of purpose, we will address the challenges facing higher education and research, and explore the opportunities ahead, while supporting education, advancing knowledge and serving the academic community.
As the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens celebrates its 190th anniversary, we continue our shared endeavour with a strong sense of responsibility, unity and determination. Together, we are building an even greater, more outward-looking and internationally recognised university – one at the forefront of education and research and firmly committed to serving society and the country.
Gerasimos Siasos
Rector of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
President of the Hellenic Universities Rectors’ Conference
