Earlier this month, on Friday, October 10, the Athens University of Economics and Business (AUEB) officially welcomed its first group of students into the English-language undergraduate program in Athens. Twenty-six students from 17 countries came together in the “Eleftherios Venizelos” ceremonial hall for a celebration featuring music from the university orchestra and traditional dance. The event marked a significant moment for Greek public higher education and the city’s expanding international presence.
The new program, leading to a degree in International Business and Technology, is taught entirely in English and designed for students from other countries. Its launch was enabled by Law 4692/2020, which permits Greek public universities to offer complete undergraduate programs in foreign languages. The event was held in the center of Athens and included a parallel welcome for new Greek students, which filled the campus with music, voices, and energy.
Why this launch matters for Athens’ academic scene
By introducing an English-taught bachelor’s program, AUEB is showing a clear international direction for the city’s universities. The university’s leadership highlighted the importance of a challenging academic program in a competitive global setting and the benefits of a multicultural classroom, which introduces fresh viewpoints to the academic and social life of Athens.
Who took part in the welcome?
University President Professor Vasileios Vasdekis spoke to the new students, while Vice-President Professor Nancy Pouloudi gave a presentation on AUEB’s history, departments, and international partnerships. Professor Dimitris Manolopoulos, who designed and now directs the program, emphasized the central role of multiculturalism. The atmosphere at the ceremony was festive, showing the university’s goal of making the first group of students feel at home in Athens.
What does the program offer?
According to AUEB, the curriculum combines economics, business administration, technology, and international studies. All courses are taught in English, and the program is specifically designed for international students. The university describes this as the first initiative of its kind in Greece for public undergraduate education, blending modern academic content with the demands of a global economy while honoring Athenian academic traditions.
Students share first impressions
New students mentioned they had a supportive start to their life and studies in the city. “Greece is a historic and beautiful country,” said Mohamed from Pakistan, adding that it’s easy to get around and students get a 50% discount on public transport. Herbert from Rwanda, who now lives in Kato Patissia, thanked the university for its help in settling in when he first arrived alone. Ni from Vietnam mentioned her mother’s positive experience in Greece, and Charlotte from Milan said Athens feels warm and welcoming. Alex from Chicago shared that seeing the English program launch convinced him to enroll, as he passed by the campus every day.
What happens next for the cohort?
AUEB describes the new program as advanced and competitive, with its first class of students leading the way for a model new to Greece. For the city, this initiative suggests stronger academic connections with the world and more cultural exchange on campus and elsewhere. As the semester continues, the university plans to use the energy from the opening ceremony to further integrate its international students into the Athens academic community.
Source: https://www.tovima.com/stories/from-rwanda-to-kato-patissia-a-new-student-life-in-athens/
