The picturesque ancient theater of Epidaurus recently became the backdrop for focused discussions on sustainable tourism, as in the beginning of June The American College of Greece (ACG) campus welcomed international students and faculty for the 14th International Summer School for Sustainable Development (ISSD). This year’s collaboration between the Center of Excellence in Food, Tourism & Leisure (CoEFTL) and German partner universities showcases how academic partnerships can drive real-world solutions for Greece’s tourism sector.

From Classroom Theory to Ancient Greek Practice

The International Summer School for Sustainable Development transforms traditional academic learning into hands-on problem-solving experiences. Developed by Professor Sebastian Kaiser-Jovy of Heilbronn University and co-organized since 2022 with Professor Timo Becker of Kaiserslautern University of Applied Sciences, the ISSD creates a unique learning environment where international students tackle real sustainability challenges.

This year’s focus on “Development of Epidaurus into a resilience-oriented tourist destination” perfectly aligned with CoEFTL’s mission to support innovative research that drives Greece’s economic growth. The program’s problem-based experiential learning approach allows students to develop intercultural and critical thinking skills while applying theoretical knowledge to practical Mediterranean challenges.

Greek Expertise Meets International Collaboration

The partnership reached new heights with the participation of three faculty members of the Sports Management Program (SPM) and CoEFTL members. Each brought specialized expertise that enriched the international learning experience. Professor Charitomeni Tsordia delivered compelling insights on sports sponsorship opportunities and practical applications, demonstrating how athletic events can drive sustainable tourism revenue. Professor Eugenia Tzoumaka explored the crucial role of community involvement as social capital, showing international students how local engagement becomes a success factor for sports events. Professor Symeon Siomopoulos introduced participants to sports psychology fundamentals, including practical applications of relaxation methods through conscious breathing techniques. These presentations, delivered both at the ancient Epidaurus site and during the campus visit, were recognized by faculty and students as highly influential for the students’ project.

Strategic Partnership Drives Long-term Impact

The success of this year’s ISSD builds upon a significant milestone achieved earlier this year with the signing of a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This strategic partnership between CoEFTL, the Municipality of Epidaurus, and the German university consortium was formalized at The American College of Greece, with key representatives cementing their commitment to sustainable development:

• Professor Stella Leivadi representing CoEFTL’s academic leadership
• Mayor Tasos Chronis and Deputy Chair Dimitris Ginis bringing local government perspective from the Municipality of Epidaurus
• Professor Sebastian Kaiser representing the German university consortium

This partnership positions CoEFTL as the official patron of the ISSD program, creating a framework for ongoing collaboration that extends beyond single academic visits.

Seven Years of Sustained Academic Partnership

Professor Stella Leivadi has been instrumental in nurturing this collaboration since its inception in 2018, ensuring the partnership between CoEFTL and the International Summer School continues to evolve and expand. This sustained commitment demonstrates how consistent academic partnerships can create lasting impact for sustainable development in Greece.

The 2025 ISSD visit builds upon the momentum from last year’s successful ISSD 2024 experience, where international collaboration and knowledge exchange created measurable benefits for all participants.

Looking Forward: Where Academia Meets Real-World Impact

Greece’s tourism industry faces unique challenges as it balances growing visitor numbers with the need to protect its archaeological treasures and natural environment. Programs like the ISSD offer something valuable: a space where international students can wrestle with these complex issues alongside local experts who understand both the opportunities and constraints.

The students working on Epidaurus this year aren’t just completing an academic exercise. They’re exploring questions that matter to the local community such as how to manage tourism flows, engage residents in decision-making, and create economic benefits that don’t come at the expense of the site’s historical significance.

What makes this collaboration particularly worthwhile is its longevity. Seven years of consistent partnership means that ideas developed in one year’s program can be tested, refined, and built upon in subsequent visits. It’s the kind of sustained engagement that can actually lead to meaningful change rather than just good intentions.