Anatolia American University and the University of Macedonia Sign Landmark Memorandum of Understanding
Anatolia American University and the University of Macedonia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a framework for academic and research collaboration between the two institutions. The agreement was signed on May 26, 2026, at the University of Macedonia by Rector Dr. Stylianos Katranidis and Anatolia American University's President Dr. Stamos Karamouzis.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in Greek higher education as the first formal collaboration between a public university and a non-state, not for profit university operating under Greece’s new legal framework.
The MoU provides for a wide range of joint initiatives, including collaborative research projects, participation in national and international research programs, academic conferences, lectures, symposia, summer schools, workshops, and cultural events. The partnership will also facilitate the exchange of expertise, educational resources, technological know-how, and scholarly publications.
Founded on a tradition of academic excellence and international engagement, the University of Macedonia is one of Greece’s leading public universities, serving more than 12,000 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. The institution is recognized for its strong ties to the labor market, high-quality faculty and alumni, and commitment to innovation and student success.
Anatolia American University, Greece’s first licensed non-state, not for profit university (Registry Number 001), received official authorization to operate in August 2025 and achieved accreditation for all of its academic programs in October 2025 during the first round of evaluations conducted by the Hellenic Authority for Higher Education (HAHE). The university welcomed its inaugural cohort of students in October 2025 and currently hosts Greek and international students, as well as visiting students from universities across the United States and Europe.
“The signing of this Memorandum sends a clear message that public universities are willing to explore meaningful partnerships with the new non-state universities operating in Greece when such collaborations can create added value for education, research, and society,” said Dr. Stylianos Katranidis, Rector of the University of Macedonia.
Dr. Stamos Karamouzis, Provost of Anatolia American University, emphasized that the agreement “signals a new era of openness, trust, and creative partnership in Greek higher education. The collaboration between a public and a non-state university demonstrates that academic excellence, innovation, and an international outlook can unite different institutions around a common goal: advancing education and research.”
The partnership builds upon a longstanding informal relationship between the two institutions, which has included guest lectures, workshops, academic events, and collaborative initiatives. Most recently, Anatolia’s Dukakis Center supported the University of Macedonia’s Model United Nations conference (ThessISMUN), held in April 2026, with participation from students of the American College of Thessaloniki and Anatolia American University.
Looking ahead, both institutions will combine their expertise and international networks to address emerging challenges in higher education, including attracting students from global markets and adapting to the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on teaching, learning, and research. The collaboration will also foster the exchange of academic practices and perspectives from Europe and the United States, enriching the educational experience for students and faculty alike.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to academic excellence, internationalization, innovation, and the advancement of higher education in Greece and beyond.
