A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Wednesday, February 23, 2022, between the Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA) and the International Hellenic University (IHU). The memorandum, which was signed by the CEO of DESFA Maria Rita Galli and the President of the IHU Prof. Athanassios Kaissis outlines among other, on the occasion of the development and operation of the Technical Training and Research Center by DESFA in the area of New Mesimvria Thessaloniki, the following:
- the joint undertaking of actions and services in matters of education, training, as well as research projects and innovation
- research partnerships on green energy and sustainable development, primarily of gas and hydrogen networks
- joint submission of research proposals
- utilization of appropriate financing tools
- participation of the Technical Training and Research Center in joint programs that will be provided through the Training and Lifelong Learning Center (KEDIVIM) of the International Hellenic University, within the legal framework that applies to Higher Education institutions
- possibility of internships for students of the International Hellenic University at the Technical Training and Research Center
- investigation and targeted actions for the creation of a Postgraduate Program on the Management of Gas and Hydrogen Networks in English
On the occasion of the signing of the MoU, the CEO of DESFA, Maria Rita Galli, stated: “We are particularly pleased as through our cooperation with the International Hellenic University we further strengthen our direct connection with the academic community and the research work produced, while at the same time laying the foundations for maximizing the benefits of the new Technical Training and Research Center being created by DESFA in the area of Nea Mesimvria Thessaloniki, with a view to the development of the sector and the acceleration of the transition to a sustainable energy future.”
On his part, the President of the IHU, Prof. Athanassios Kaissis, stressed: Through this Memorandum, we establish, inter alia, the opportunity of cooperation of the International Hellenic University with key international partners in the management of Green Energy Networks for the benefit of our students and the academic members of the IHU, and we create, upon discretion, synergies with the market for the optimal education and employability of our students”.
During the meeting, which took place virtually, the main points of the cooperation were presented and the actions for the implementation of the MoU, which are planned immediately, were discussed.