Private universities are expected to drive growth – Report

Greece is banking on the establishment of private universities to drive economic growth, reduce academic migration and create tens of thousands of jobs, according to a study by Deloitte, writes Apostolos Lakasas for Ekathimerini.

The new non-state universities, expected to begin operating in the 2025-26 academic year, could generate €6.8 billion (US$7.7 billion) for the economy over five years, including €1.2 billion (US$1.36 billion) in state revenue and 45,000 new jobs.

Twelve applications have already been submitted. The move aims to curb the exodus of Greek students abroad – currently around 40,500 – by offering more academic options at home. Only one in three Greek students currently get into their top-choice university programme. Beyond the financial boost, officials say the plan could help reverse brain drain. Nearly half of Greek PhD holders abroad are open to returning, and private universities could serve as a ‘gateway’ back.
Full report on the Ekathimerini site