Aegis Omiros University – University of Essex awarded licence by Greek Government

The University of Essex has been awarded a licence to operate in Greece by the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports.

Aegis Omiros University – University of Essex (AOU – University of Essex) is one of just seven University Legal Entities (ULEs) to be approved by the Greek Government in this latest round.

AOU – University of Essex aspires to become a leading contributor to the country's higher education landscape, helping to develop and retain local talent while also attracting students from around the world. Through internationally recognised qualifications, it aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in a global economy.

Professor Frances Bowen, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Essex, said: “This is a moment of real institutional pride for Essex. This is a powerful collaboration between two institutions with a shared belief in the transformative value of higher education.”

The strict evaluation process looked at quality assurance, the implementation of the academic procedures of the parent institution, the adequacy of staffing in academic and administrative/technical personnel, the completeness of the infrastructure and logistical equipment, the suitability of their organisational structure and the adequacy of their support services.

The Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, Sofia Zacharaki, said: “With rigorous evaluation, high academic criteria and full respect for the institutional role of the National Authority of Higher Education, we are shaping a new landscape in Higher Education, for the benefit of the young people of our country.

“The positive evaluation of the four new applications, as well as the successful re-evaluation by three leading international institutions, confirm that the law is being implemented with consistency, reliability and absolute commitment to quality.”

She said the new universities would help Greece evolve “into a strong hub that attracts top universities from abroad, strengthens extroversion, research, innovation and creates more opportunities for Greek students.”

The Deputy Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports, Professor Nikos Papaioannou, responsible for Higher Education issues added that Greece “is upgrading itself on the international academic map, shaping a modern higher education system that supports the public university, offers more opportunities to young people and keeps the country firmly on the path of progress.

“The coexistence of public and private universities enhances the competitiveness of Greek higher education and creates new opportunities for collaborations, investments, research and innovation.”