The Agricultural University of Athens (A.U.A.) is the third oldest University in Greece, after the University of Athens and the National Technical University of Athens (Metsovio).
It was established by law in 1920 (Law 1844/1920) as an Independent Higher Education Institute with university status under the name of the Highest Agricultural School of Athens (H.A.S.A.).
In 1989, the H.A.S.A. had renamed the Agricultural University of Athens and organized into seven independent academic departments (Presidential Decree 377/1989). Although its Greek title was modified in 1995 (Presidential Decree 226/1995), the English one (A.U.A.) remained unchanged.
According to Article 1 of the Internal Regulations of the A.U.A., "The A.U.A. provides education at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels covering all sectors of agricultural activity. Its educational programs, combining theoretical teaching with laboratory exercises and practical training, are based on practical experience and are closely related to the problems and perspectives of Greek agriculture. The A.U.A. programs aim at equipping its graduates for their role as competent agriculturalists/agronomists. They may provide instruction and support to the farmer, participate in the planning of the country's agricultural development, and, through their research, contribute to problems within the agricultural sector and the management of natural resources for the production of agricultural products. The A.U.A. serves as a center of basic and applied research, aiming at the development of agricultural science and the self-reliance of Greek agriculture for the benefit of the agricultural population and the Greek people".
According to Presidential Decree 80 /2013, two Schools were established within the University, incorporating the previous seven departments: the School of Agricultural Production, Infrastructure and Environment, and the School of Food, Biotechnology, and Development.
The Agricultural University of Athens (A.U.A.) offers high-level undergraduate and postgraduate education and Research in Agricultural Science. Its vision is to achieve Educational and Research Excellence to occupy an influential position in the international academic environment.
True to its traditional role of responding to the Greek economy and society's productive and developmental needs, the A.U.A. intervenes and develops in line with the development and orientation of modern education and science. Moreover, it is in continuous contact with society to make proposals and provide solutions to problems that arise within the agri-nutrition sector.
The A.U.A. is an autonomous state university. It is responsible for the Ministry of Culture, Education, and Religion, which oversees and provides financial support. It operates within the framework of Article 16 of the present Constitution and the laws that govern higher education within the country (Laws 4115, 4009, 4076, 4115).
The institutional Framework of the A.U.A. is based on respect for democratic institutions and the adoption of academic ethics. The decision-making procedures of all the bodies of the University are characterized by transparency and aim at meritocracy and justice for all members of the academic community.
Recognizing the need for the systematic collection and recording of objective qualitative and quantitative indexes, in 2008, the A.U.A. first implemented an assessment system for the academic year 2007-2008 according to the institutional framework of the country (Law 3374/2005) and continues to implement it each academic year.
The collaboration strategy of A.U.A. in Greece aims to create and sustain a nationwide network. Through this network, A.U.A. will interact with others to diffuse knowledge, exchange experiences, and coordinate actions related to the development of the agro-food sector in Greece.
Exchange of scientists, research collaborations, educational activities, and outreach and extension programs are encouraged under Cooperation Protocols, which A.U.A. has signed with Universities and Institutions in Greece.
Moreover, A.U.A. Career Services Office, focusing on networking and support for students and young graduates on issues related to education and training, has signed many Cooperation Protocols with Organizations and Institutions of the Public and Private Sector. It currently maintains a network of 206 cooperating companies from the agro-food sector.
Partnerships between research groups of A.U.A. and other Universities, Research Centers, and Public and Private Institutions have been developed in the framework of National Research programs and agreements with the private sector. The collaboration strategy of A.U.A. internationally aims to position A.U.A. in the international scene of academic activities and develop an initiative that solves the hot scientific and societal problems worldwide.
The International & Public Relations Office is responsible for the development, organization, and promotion of A.U.A. public affairs with other universities and organizations. Besides, the office deals with the Promotion of the Institution through mass media information events. Organization of ceremonies, celebrations, conferences, lectures, and other events Scheduling meetings, visits, and contacts for the Rector and Deputy Rectors with the Institution offices, public agencies, and the public.
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