Following the resolution of the legislative issue regarding land use in the Western Macedonia region, the green light has been given for the implementation of three flagship projects at the University of Western Macedonia.
This positive development was discussed, among others, at a meeting yesterday at the University, attended by the Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance, Nikos Papathanasis, the Director of the Just Transition Special Authority, Pelopidas Kalliris, the Rector, Professor Theodoros Theodoulidis and the new rectorate authorities of the University of Western Macedonia. Also present were the Regional Governor of Western Macedonia, Giorgos Amanatidis, members of parliament and University executives.
The three flagship projects to commence presently are:
- The Technology Park, the first key project of the Innovation Zone at the Kozani University Campus,
- The Green Data Center at the Kozani Campus, which will host the University of Western Macedonia’s Supercomputer,
- Energy upgrades of the University buildings, funded by the Just Transition Fund.
The next steps regarding the construction of student dormitories through PPPs, the Living Labs, the Local Observatory and the integration of University projects into the Third Pillar of the Just Transition Programme were also discussed.
Highlighting the strategic importance and developmental role of the University, Deputy Minister Nikos Papathanasis stated:
“The University of Western Macedonia plays a pivotal role in the region’s transition to a new, sustainable production model. The Just Transition Programme, now fully underway, is closely linked with the University, which is preparing new professionals to support the businesses of the new era.
Our goal is to reduce unemployment, create high-quality jobs and provide incentives for young people to stay and contribute locally. The University exemplifies the connection between education, production and the real economy, demonstrating its developmental role in practice.
We will continue to actively support the University’s work, strengthening every initiative that promotes development, innovation and the creation of new opportunities in Western Macedonia.”
The Director of the Just Transition Special Authority, Pelopidas Kalliris, emphasized that the University of Western Macedonia is a priority for EYDAM. He referred to the Innovation Zone and the Local Observatory, noting that the University is expected to play an active role with measurable indicators and a clear developmental impact, while assuring ongoing support from EYDAM for building interventions.
The Rector of the University, Prof. Theodoros Theodoulidis, highlighted the importance of collaboration with institutional and development stakeholders, noting:
“The major infrastructure development projects of the University, implemented under the Strategic Plan 2025–2030, define our new profile as a strong regional University.
The recent legislative regulation on land use allows us to proceed with substantial upgrading interventions.The University of Western Macedonia is on a trajectory of rapid growth and is internationally recognized, with a steady rise in university rankings. Its role in transforming the region’s production model is now decisive.”
The meeting also announced the upcoming call for industrial PhD programmes with the University of Western Macedonia as the beneficiary, further strengthening the University’s multifaceted role as a hub of knowledge, innovation and sustainable development for Western Macedonia.
University of Western Macedonia
