On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, Chrysi Laspidou, the Vice-Rector of the University of Thessaly, participated as a guest on the TRT program “Central Greece Good Evening.” During the discussion, she provided an in-depth overview of her responsibilities within the institution, highlighting the University’s recent accomplishments and its strategic goals.

The Role of the Vice-Rector

Chrysi Laspidou offered valuable insights regarding her responsibilities as Vice-Rector, which encompass various facets of the University’s operations.

She underscored the significance of collaborations with academic institutions, industry leaders, and governmental entities in promoting excellence in education and research. The discussion on digital governance underscored the university’s dedication to technological advancement, emphasizing initiatives aimed at integrating digital tools into both administrative and educational processes to enhance overall efficiency. She also delineated initiatives aimed at fostering research-driven innovation, thereby encouraging both students and faculty to cultivate pioneering ideas.

Leading One Planet Thessaly, Innovation-Technology Transfer Unit and Entrepreneurship Center

As the head of One Planet Thessaly, Vice-Rector Chrysi Laspidou articulated the Unit’s mission to facilitate the transfer of innovation and establish connections with the industrial market. She elaborated on current projects and collaborations designed to foster entrepreneurship.

Vice-Rector Chrysi Laspidou emphasized the recent accomplishments of the University of Thessaly, particularly the successful organization of the Innovation Hackathon “Tech For Aeiforia, students and professionals to recognize innovative ideas”. Furthermore, she complimented Professor Elpiniki Papageorgiou, head of Artificial intelligence, Computational methods & Technological Applications (ACTA) Lab and her team, whose pioneering research initiative has garnered acclaim for its contributions to the fields of science and technology and artificial intelligence.

In anticipation of future developments, she provided insights regarding upcoming events focused on entrepreneurship. These initiatives are designed to empower young innovators by equipping them with essential skills and networking opportunities, thereby facilitating the transformation of their ideas into successful ventures.

A Woman in Leadership

In reflecting on her journey as a female leader in academia, which commenced in the United States, the Vice-Rector articulated the challenges and opportunities she has faced. She emphasized her dedication to inspiring and supporting women in both academic and leadership positions, while advocating for gender equality and empowerment within the realms of education and research.

The appearance of the Vice Rector, Chrysi Laspidou, on TRT’s “Central Greece Good Evening” highlighted the University of Thessaly’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability, alongside her esteemed colleagues who are leading these initiatives.