A strategic partnership between the School of Agricultural Sciences at the University of Western Macedonia and Ktima Kir-Yianni was officially signed on Wednesday, April 10th, at the university’s premises in Kozani, in the presence of the University’s Rector, Professor Theodoros Theodoulidis, and the Winemaker and CEO of Ktima Kir-Yianni, Stellios Boutaris. This collaboration marks the beginning of a shared vision to provide the academic community of the School with advanced educational and research tools in the fields of viticulture and winemaking. The first step of this partnership is the creation of a vineyard within the School’s experimental farm, with planting set to begin immediately.

As part of the agreement, students will have the opportunity to complete their internships at Ktima Kir-Yianni and receive hands-on training at its wineries in Naoussa and Amyndeon—an important step in bridging academic knowledge with real-world practice.

Further initiatives discussed include the development of Industrial Doctorates, the Visiting Professor program, and the potential establishment of an Endowed Chair in viticulture and oenology, supported by Ktima Kir-Yianni – reflecting the long-term strategic vision shared by both sides.

From left to right: Vasilis Mylonas, Agronomist at Kir-Yianni Estate in Amyndeon, Professor Malamati Louta, Vice Rector for Administrative and Financial Affairs, Professor Stergios Maropoulos, Vice Rector for Research and Innovation, Konstantinos Nikou, Executive Director of the University, Stellios Boutaris, Winemaker & CEO of Kir-Yianni Estate, Professor Theodoros Theodoulidis, Rector of the University of Western Macedonia, Professor Fokion Papathanasiou, Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences.