Memorandum of Understanding between the Agricultural University of Athens and the International Olive Council

In November 2025, the Rector of the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA), Professor Spyridon Kintzios, and the Executive Director of the International Olive Council (IOC), Mr. Jaime Lillo, signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two institutions in the fields of research, education, the organization of joint events and seminars, technical cooperation, and the transfer of know-how in the sectors of table olives and olive oil.

The Memorandum of Understanding seeks to establish a stable channel of communication between the two parties and includes, among others, the following objectives:

• The promotion of technical cooperation, research and development, innovation, and technology transfer in the olive sector through collaboration on joint initiatives.
• The enhancement of technology transfer through educational activities in fields related to the olive sector, including the organization of international, regional, and national actions.
• The utilization of relevant scientific expertise for the implementation of studies, as well as research or development projects.
• The organization of joint scientific symposia, preferably hosted at the premises of the Agricultural University of Athens, subject to prior mutual agreement and the availability of resources, with administrative support provided by the IOC in accordance with its internal procedures and capacities.
• Participation in cultural activities organized by the Agricultural University of Athens related to olive oil and table olives.
• The promotion of cooperation between AUA and the IOC in celebrating the World Olive Day.

The collaboration between the International Olive Council and the Agricultural University of Athens constitutes a strategic partnership that is expected to significantly enhance scientific research, innovation, and education in the olive sector. By combining the international expertise of the IOC with the academic excellence and research capacity of AUA, this partnership will foster the exchange of knowledge and technology, strengthen skills development, and contribute to the dissemination of sustainable practices throughout the olive value chain.

Professor Efthymios Panagou of the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition was appointed as the coordinator of the collaboration on behalf of the Agricultural University of Athens.