On the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of the University of Piraeus’ MSc in Shipping program, and in celebration of European Maritime Day, B2Sea had the honour of organising the Anniversary Event and Graduation Ceremony. The event marked a quarter-century of academic excellence, innovation, and impactful contribution of the MSc in Shipping to the Greek maritime industry.
A Special Publication Honouring the Legacy and Contribution of the MSc in Shipping
The MSc in Shipping was the first postgraduate program established by the Department of Maritime Studies at the University of Piraeus. Launched in 2000, it was a strategic initiative designed to meet the evolving needs of the Greek economy and maritime sector. Its creation reinforced the University’s long-standing mission—dating back to 1938 with the founding of the School of Industrial Studies—to provide specialized and innovative education.
To commemorate the program’s 25-year journey, B2Sea has also designed and published a special edition highlighting the MSc in Shipping’s history, current impact, and future vision. The publication is available below:
Marking 25 Years of Excellence: A Milestone Event in Maritime Education
Held at the Amphitheatre of the Eugenides Foundation on Monday, 26 May 2025, the event, under the theme “Greek Shipping – Education, Research, Innovation: Shaping the Future”, brought together academics, representatives of reputable maritime institutions, prominent figures of the Greek shipping industry, maritime professionals, alumni, and students.
The Anniversary Event held under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, the Waterborne Technology Platform, the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, and the Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry opened with welcome addresses by key figures in the maritime sector, including Dr. Leonidas Dimitriadis-Evgenidis, IMO Goodwill Maritime Ambassador in Greece and President of the Eugenides Foundation; Mr. Vasilis Kikilias, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy; Mr. George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping; and Mr. Vassilis Korkidis, President of the Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
During the event, special reference was made to the origins, milestones, and future vision of the MSc in Shipping. Outgoing Director Prof. Maria Boile highlighted the program’s strong connection with both academia and the maritime industry, its excellence in teaching, and its adaptability to evolving sector needs. Incoming Director Assoc. Prof. Dionysios Polemis emphasized the program’s dual role as an academic and professional bridge, its continued relevance in addressing challenges like green transition and AI, and its commitment to innovation and strategic partnerships. Alumni representatives Aris Ktenas and top graduate Fotini Vogiatzaki shared insights on how the program shaped their careers and inspired a forward-looking perspective.
The introductory remarks ware followed by a high-level roundtable discussion on “Greek Shipping – Education, Research, Innovation: Shaping Tomorrow.” Distinguished speakers included Mr. Miltiadis Varvitsiotis (CEO, Skaramangas Shipyards), Ms. Vivi Kolliopoulou (President, WISTA Hellas & Insurance Manager, Angelicoussis Group), Ms. Vanda Kostopoulou (Vice President, Arkas Logistics Greece & Serbia), Mr. George Poularas (Managing Director, Shipmanagement Division, ENESEL Group), and Mr. Charalampos Simantonis (President, Hellenic Shortsea Shipowners Association & President, European Shortsea Network).
A warm thank you by B2Sea
We are proud, as B2Sea, to have successfully supported this milestone occasion, which honoured the legacy and future of maritime education and research in Greece.
A heartfelt thank you to the University of Piraeus and the MSc in Shipping for your trust and collaboration. It was a privilege to be part of this important moment.