Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance Nikos Papathanasis announced €12 million in new ESPA funding to strengthen higher education through actions that enable PhD holders to gain teaching experience at Greek universities.
The initiative is financed under the “Human Resources and Social Cohesion 2021–2027” programme and aims to provide young researchers with valuable academic teaching opportunities while reinforcing the educational and research capacity of Greece's higher education institutions.
Investing in Young Researchers
The funding supports independent teaching assignments for doctoral graduates across Greek universities, helping them acquire practical classroom experience and develop academic careers.
According to the Ministry, the programme also contributes to renewing university teaching staff by offering opportunities to highly qualified scientists at the early stages of their professional careers.
Strengthening Higher Education Through ESPA
The new actions form part of the government's broader strategy to invest in education, innovation and human capital through European funding.
The programme is expected to benefit universities across the country, enhancing the quality of undergraduate education while allowing departments to draw on the expertise of new researchers in specialized scientific fields.
Papathanasis: Investing in Knowledge and Innovation
Commenting on the initiative, Papathanasis stressed that investing in higher education is a strategic priority for Greece's long-term development.
He noted that supporting young scientists helps create stronger links between research, teaching and innovation while improving opportunities for highly skilled professionals to remain and build their careers in Greece.
Part of Greece's Development Strategy
The measure is one of several ESPA-funded initiatives designed to strengthen education, employment and social cohesion during the 2021–2027 programming period.
Government officials underline that continued investment in universities and research is essential for boosting competitiveness, fostering innovation and supporting sustainable economic growth.