Manolis Koutouzis, dean of the School of Humanities, was elected the first rector of the Hellenic Open University (HOP) after the first elections held at the Hellenic Open University.

Until recently, the HOP was governed by governing committees, however, after the recent passing of the law. 5094/2024 (for non-state universities), the university was given the possibility of self-governance.

Along with the election of the first rector, the first four vice-rectors of the HOP were appointed, based on the proposal of the elected rector:

– Athanasios Michiotis, Professor of the Faculty of Social Sciences of the HOP, Vice Rector for Research and Innovation.

– Takis Kagialis, Professor of the Faculty of Humanities of the Hellenic Academy of Sciences, Vice Rector of Academic Affairs and Outward Bound.

– Efthimios Zervas, Professor of the School of Applied Arts & Sustainable Design, Vice Dean of Infrastructure and Finance.

– Vassilis Verykios, Professor of the Faculty of Science & Technology, Vice Rector of Student Affairs.

The new Rector after his election sent the following message of thanks

Dear and dear colleagues, faculty members of the HOP

Today is a historic day for our University. For the first time after 27 years of operation, we have democratically elected Rectorial Authorities at the Hellenic Open University (HOP). Thus, an unprecedented process for all of us has been completed, which, in my opinion, has been fruitful and creative. This process made us think and discuss about our University, our expectations for it, to reflect and evaluate its course so far and to commit ourselves to its future.

A new era is beginning for the HOP, an era full of challenges, which I am confident that we will face with consensus, unity, mutual support and cooperation.

I would like to thank the members of the Governing Board for the trust and honor they have shown in me by electing me as the first Rector of the HOP. Together with all members of the Governing Board, but also with the entire academic community of the HOP, we will strive to lead our University into the new era. Warm thanks also to our new Vice Rectors for all their help.

With a sense of responsibility and constant concern for the good of the HOP, I will serve, the position of Rector with dedication, faith in the collective vision, fairness and ethics. I am also committed to seeking the maximum possible consensus. The new environment, new challenges and opportunities cannot be exploited in any other way than through consensus, collegiality, open dialogue and maximum utilization of knowledge, ideas and skills.

As stated in our submitted Development Plan, during my term of office I will focus my efforts on six key pillars/priorities.

Redesigning and further enhancing the quality of the offered Curricula, with emphasis on upgraded educational materials and experiential learning experience for students.

Creating a safe inclusive environment, with equal opportunities for all members of the academic community.

In democratic processes, transparency, collegiality and participatory decision-making. All of this will be accompanied by ongoing accountability.

To substantial extroversion actions and improvement of the HOP’s visibility, both in Greece and abroad. The HOP must exploit its comparative advantage.
The development of academic and research infrastructure, based on the strategic planning of the institution.

The development of research, both basic and applied, in cutting-edge areas and in connection with the needs of society.

Our vision for the HOP is to further improve the quality of its academic standards to enhance meritocracy, openness to partners, faculty and students, as well as to ideas, methods and practices that will provide opportunities for its students, as well as its academic and administrative staff to realize their potential and potential. A University that will be a reference point in open and distance education, with a constant supply of innovative knowledge in Greek higher education.

In this effort valuable assistance will be provided by both our colleagues, faculty members of the HOP and our administrative staff. Valuable helpers will also be the hundreds of our colleagues Professors-Counselors who are the best ambassadors of the HOP in the country and abroad!

Dear and dear ones,

Once again, and on behalf of the new Vice Rectors, I thank you all for your trust and honor. I strongly believe in the potential of the NAP, in its dynamics as well as in the skills and dedication of its people. The next four years will be full of challenges. With hard work, unity, commitment and knowledge, I am confident that we will succeed!

All be well.

Manolis Koutouzis