A Memorandum of Scientific and Cultural Cooperation between the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and the Holy Metropolis of Buenos Aires and South America of the Ecumenical Patriarchate was signed yesterday, Wednesday, September 8, 2021, by the Rector of AUTh, Professor Nikolaos G. Papaioannou, and Metropolitan Joseph of Buenos Aires and South America at the Rector’s Office.
The Memorandum of Cooperation includes, among others, the mobility for the learning of the Greek language, the internship of students, the mobility of Teachers and researchers for research in Latin America, as well as the organization of educational and cultural activities for the promotion of the work of the AUTh in South America and the work of expatriate organizations in Thessaloniki.
“The Memorandum of Cooperation with the Holy Diocese of Buenos Aires and South America demonstrates the extroversion of Aristotle, as well as the multifaceted action of the Theological School of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki while offering new research opportunities to members of our University Community. It is also a special joy for us, as the Metropolitan is a graduate of both undergraduate and postgraduate studies at our University”, said the Rector of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Professor Nikolaos G. Papaioannou.
Addressing the Metropolitan of Buenos Aires, the Rector of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki pointed out that “it is an honor for us in your position to speak the Greek language, which means that not only the Greek language but also the Greek culture is transferred to the places where you serve.”
For his part, the Metropolitan of Buenos Aires and South America noted that “this agreement opens a horizon that will be exploited and we will have very good results. Our mission in South America is not limited to the religious part, but is multidimensional. The collaboration with Aristotle is the best means to promote not only our theological tradition but our entire educational and academic tradition in South America, where there is a cult of Greek culture”, adding that “AUTh is an alma mater. I was ‘born’ spiritually over here.”
The meeting was also attended by the former Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs and Staff of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Emeritus Professor of the Theological School of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Despo Lialiou.