Piraeus Port Authority S.A. and the National Technical University of Athens Sign Memorandum of Understanding
Piraeus Port Authority S.A. (PPA S.A.) and the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), launching a strategic collaboration in the fields of research, technological advancement, and sustainable port development.
The Memorandum aims to strengthen cooperation between the academic community and the port industry through joint initiatives in areas such as smart port technologies, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, maritime safety, and logistics. It also establishes a framework for collaborative research, knowledge exchange, and educational activities, fostering the development of advanced solutions for the maritime sector.
On the signing, the Chairman of PPA S.A., Mr. Han Chao stated:
“Our cooperation with the National Technical University of Athens marks an important step in strengthening the connection between academia and the port industry. By leveraging NTUA’s scientific expertise alongside PPA’s operational experience, we are creating the conditions to develop advanced solutions that will support the sustainable development of the Port of Piraeus.”
The rector of the National Technical University of Athens, Mr. Ioannis Chatzigeorgiou also stated:
As a member of the COSCO SHIPPING Group, PPA S.A. remains committed to the continuous modernisation of the Port of Piraeus by fostering strategic partnerships that strengthen competitiveness, promote sustainable growth, and create long-term value for the Greek maritime sector and the national economy.
The National Technical University of Athens, Greece’s leading technological institution, leverages its long-standing scientific tradition and the high-level expertise of its academic community to contribute to the development of innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of the port industry and the Greek economy.
The signing of the Memorandum marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between PPA S.A. and NTUA, with the shared objective of advancing research, technology, and expertise for the benefit of the Port of Piraeus, the Greek maritime industry, and Greece’s broader economic development.
PPA S.A.: Meeting of the Chairman with the Rector of the National Technical University of Athens
The Chairman of PPA S.A., Mr. Han Chao, and the company’s Deputy CEO, Mr. Angelos Karakostas, welcomed at the headquarters of PPA S.A. the Rector of the National Technical University of Athens, Professor Ioannis Chatjigeorgiou, as well as Professor Nikolaos Ventikos from the School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering of NTUA.
The meeting took place in a highly positive climate, highlighting the potential for meaningful cooperation between port activity and academic knowledge, with the aim of leveraging expertise, strengthening innovation, and connecting education with the real economy.
During the meeting, the prospects for cooperation between PPA S.A. and the National Technical University of Athens were discussed, with emphasis on the utilization of NTUA’s scientific knowledge and expertise in areas linked to the contemporary needs of the port and maritime industry. The discussion also focused on the possibility of connecting students with real-life applications and market challenges, contributing to the transition from theory to practice.
On behalf of PPA S.A., it was emphasized that the Port remains steadily focused on upgrading its services, including through partnerships with the academic community. In this context, the two sides discussed the exploration of suitable projects and joint actions, as well as the possibility for PPA to act as a platform connecting NTUA with Chinese shipping companies, further enhancing extroversion and the exchange of know-how.
Both sides agreed to continue their communication and move forward in the coming period towards a more institutionalized cooperation, through the development of a Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation.
RINA works with the National Technical University of Athens to support the future Young Engineers in Greece
RINA has announced the signing of an important Memorandum of Understanding with the School of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (NA & ME School) of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). RINA is one of the oldest classification societies and a founding member of the International Association of Classification Societies and the memorandum forms a framework to support young engineers in gaining professional experience, a vital supplement to their studies.
Each year, RINA will offer places to last year students and recent graduates to be trained alongside experienced engineers at its offices in Greece and abroad. The period of on-the-job training will depend on the position but it will typically last a minimum of six months. Where possible, positions will be identified to support the specific focus of individual student’s degree to provide a deeper understanding of the subject. The time spent with RINA, however, will also aim to offer a broader view of opportunities to help students fully understand the options available to them.
NTUA is the largest technical university in Greece and has reputation for excellence. Students study over a period of five years to obtain 300 credit units, which leads to a master’s Diploma in accordance with the continental European system for training engineers. The framework of practical training for budding Naval Architects and Marine Engineers from the NA & ME School will add to their understanding of the application of their academic studies to the real world.
Nello Sulfaro, CEO at RINA Services, said: “RINA and the NA & ME School already have strong cooperation in research and training. This new Memorandum enhances the opportunities for undergraduates and graduates to further their training alongside experienced engineers. This will add focus to their academic studies and help them further realize the direction in which they wish to take their careers. This added dimension will be good for the school, and for the RINA business, which is always looking for bright, new engineers to support its global work.”
Professor Gregory Grigoropoulos, Dean of the NA & ME School, at NTUA, said: “We have worked with RINA for many years, but this new framework takes our relationship an important step in the right direction. The marine industry is a valuable part of the Greek economy. The experience our students will gain within RINA, will give an excellent insight into the real world of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. It adds another, more practical dimension to their academic studies and gives them the opportunity to work alongside top engineers from one of the leading classification societies. Such cooperation can only benefit all parties involved, including the broader marine industry.”