Youth Shape Europe’s Future Through Innovation, Dialogue

Delegates of the European Youth Parliament Greece (EYP Greece) debate during the General Assembly. Photo Credit: EYP Greece

Situated in the classical heart of Athens — the area where democracy was born — the Webster Athens Cultural Center has become a modern forum for youth-led dialogue on Europe’s future. Young delegates from across Greece recently gathered to explore how technology and sustainability can redefine education and civic engagement.

The European Youth Parliament Greece (EYP Greece) General Assembly brought together high school and university students for the final session of its 49th National Selection Conference. Delegates presented and defended bold resolutions, debated key issues and voted on proposals following parliamentary procedures — all under the theme “Redefining Possibilities: Igniting New Horizons by Harnessing Technology and Sustainable Practices; Shaping a Resilient & Innovative Europe.”

“The Webster Cultural Center opened its doors with warmth and purpose," said Marifylli Kathariou, head organizer of the conference.  “It is a place where the past inspires the future, and the eagerness to host youth-driven events reflects a timeless commitment to growth, dialogue and connection.”

Discussions focused on bridging two urgent needs: educational innovation and environmental protection. Participants emphasized the importance of integrating technology into education to empower young people to shape a sustainable future. The goal was to foster a new generation of digitally literate, environmentally conscious citizens using technology not just for personal growth, but to address global challenges and build sustainable communities across Europe.

The conference centered on three interconnected pillars forming a unified ecosystem of education, inclusion and sustainability. Delegates explored how digital tools are transforming education, the need for equal access to technology and how smart cities and renewable energy systems can drive environmental solutions.

According to EYP Greece, these three pillars form a triangle — each strengthening the others. Improved educational technology empowers students, inclusive access ensures no one is left behind and both are essential in preparing young people to confront climate challenges with innovative solutions.

Adel Sakr addresses delegates of the European Youth Parliament Greece (EYP Greece). Photo credit: EYP Greece

Adel Sakr, director of enrollment management and assistant professor in the Business and Technology Department at Webster Athens, addressed the General Assembly of the Greek representation in European Youth Parliament. In his remarks, he emphasized the alignment between students’ diverse interests and the values of Webster University — particularly diversity, equity and inclusion. He highlighted how these shared concerns are reflected in the Webster Athens community, campus culture, student life and its distinctive academic programs that offer alternative, globally relevant perspectives.

“It is impressive to witness that these same classical values are still living — not only in theory, but in practice — through the actions of youth in Greece, Europe and beyond,” Sakr said. "We are proud to host the EYP Greece General Assembly in our Cultural Center. The delegates’ diverse backgrounds told a deeper story about modern Greek society. Yet within that diversity, there was a remarkable unity — rooted in wisdom, compassion and a shared commitment to purpose."

Learning Together: A Youth Perspective on Europe–US Educational Exchange

The event also provided an opportunity to explore transatlantic educational cooperation. Anthi Kalomiri, head of the Communications Department and assistant professor in the Media Studies program, discussed the topic with Panagiotis Tziatzios, secretary general and national committee representative of the 49th National Selection Conference for EYP Greece, and Sakr. They examined the role of education in connecting youth across continents.

EYP Greece panelists listen to delegate proposals and resolutions during the General Assembly meeting. Photo credit EYP Greece

“Stronger educational ties between Europe and the U.S. are essential,” said Tziatzios. “When young people collaborate — whether through joint research, virtual workshops or exchanges — they combine Europe’s sustainability expertise with America’s strengths in innovation and analytics. This synergy accelerates technical progress while building empathy, cross-cultural communication and shared responsibility.”

Tziatzios acknowledged that accreditation differences, visa issues and funding gaps remain challenges. Still, he noted that institutions can overcome these obstacles by offering joint credit frameworks, micro-grants for student teams and virtual collaboration tools.

“By involving youth directly in shaping exchange programs and summer academies, we make sure these initiatives remain relevant and engaging,” he said. “Education across the Atlantic gives young learners and leaders both hard and soft skills — from renewable energy design to adaptability and collective decision-making.”

Sakr emphasized that the event was "yet another proof that our youth in Greece are not only concerned with the realities, challenges and issues facing Greece, Europe and the world today, but are also positive and important contributors to addressing and resolving these same challenges."

About European Youth Parliament Greece – Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Thessaloniki, EYP Greece is one of 41 national committees under the EYP umbrella. It is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that promotes youth engagement in European issues, intercultural dialogue and democratic participation. Through its annual National Selection Conferences in Athens and Thessaloniki, high school students experience a four-day simulation of the European Parliament’s decision-making process, developing personal, academic and civic skills.

About Webster Athens – Webster Athens is the only fully owned and accredited U.S. university campus in Greece, bringing the best of American education to the heart of Athens. The university provides undergraduate and graduate programs that combine academic excellence with a unique cultural immersion, preparing students to succeed in an interconnected world. 

For more information about Webster Athens and its scholarship opportunities, contact Webster Athens Admissions.