The Summer School on “Energy Transition and Climate Justice”, organized by the University of Western Macedonia in collaboration with the College Year in Athens, the Institute of Energy Development & Transition to Post-Lignite Era, and the ENTRA Lab – Energy Transition and Development Transformation Laboratory, has been successfully completed. The initiative was also supported by UOWM’s Centre of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (C.CE.LL.), which certified the training and by the University Research Center (U.R.C).
Held from 25 June to 26 July 2025, the Summer School attracted students from both the United States and Greece, offering them the opportunity to explore critical issues related to the modern energy transformation. At the same time, the programme raised awareness around topics of climate justice, highlighting the need for fair solutions and inclusive participation in the transition process.
The programme featured lectures at the University’s facilities, interactive activities and educational visits across Western Macedonia. These activities showcased the region’s natural and cultural assets, as well as its potential for alternative development models beyond lignite dependency.
The Rector of the University of Western Macedonia, Professor Theodoros Theodoulidis, congratulated the participants and organizers for their substantial contribution to the success of the programme, emphasizing that “the Summer School represents an excellent opportunity for international outreach for our University, enhancing academic collaboration at a global level. The participation of students from different countries significantly contributes to the exchange of knowledge and experiences, especially on such crucial issues as energy transition and climate justice.”
The academic coordinator, Associate Professor Lefteris Topaloglou of UOWM, stated that “the Summer School highlighted the University of Western Macedonia’s active role as an academic institution at the forefront of the dialogue on just energy transition. Through international partnerships, scientific dialogue and engagement with the local context, our University reaffirms its position as a catalyst for knowledge, innovation and social responsibility, both nationally and internationally.”
The Summer School concluded with a closing ceremony that marked the completion of a highly constructive experience for the students. During the event, certificates of participation were awarded, recognizing the students’ contribution to the success of the programme. The ceremony was attended by Professor Eleni Griva, Vice-Rector for International Relations, Global Engagement and Student Affairs.
It should be noted that the Summer School is expected to be repeated in the next academic year, continuing to offer high-level education on the pressing challenges of energy transition and climate justice.
University of Western Macedonia
