New students take center stage at the University of Thessaly’s Medical Degree English Program
September 28, 2026 | Source: larissanet.gr
The official opening ceremony of the academic year and the Welcome Day for newly admitted students of the Medical Degree English Program, offered by the Department of Medicine of the School of Health Sciences at the University of Thessaly, were held with great success.
The ceremony was officially opened by Professor Chrysi Laspidou, Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation, Digital Governance and Lifelong Learning; Professor Ioannis Anagnostopoulos, Vice-Rector for Administrative and Academic Affairs and Student Welfare; and Professor Dimitrios Bogdanos, Vice-Rector for Finance, Internationalization and Partnerships and Director of the Medical Degree English Program. Professor Bogdanos also conveyed the warm wishes of the Rector of the University of Thessaly, Professor Charalambos Billinis, for a successful start to the new academic year.
The ceremony took place at the Hippocrates Amphitheatre on the Biopolis Campus, which was filled with students, parents and faculty members. Now welcoming students from around the world for the third consecutive year, the highly successful Program has grown into a vibrant international academic community, currently bringing together 160 students from 21 countries.
Professor Aristidis Zibis, Head of the Department of Medicine, delivered a presentation exploring the history and enduring legacy of medicine in Thessaly, highlighting its deep connection to Hippocrates and the Hippocratic tradition. His presentation traced the evolution of medical science in the region, linking its rich historical heritage to contemporary medical education and practice.
Professor Alexandra Bargiota, Vice-Head of the Department of Medicine, also extended a warm welcome to the students. A brief address was delivered by Professor Michalis Hantes, Professor of Orthopaedics at the University of Thessaly and President of the European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery and Arthroscopy (ESSKA). Professor Hantes highlighted the significant educational and research work carried out by the Department’s laboratories and clinics, as well as their collaboration with ESSKA, emphasizing the international opportunities and high standards of medical education offered by the University.
As part of the event, Ms Elli Kyriazi, representing the Larissa Association of Visual Arts Graduates “8”, also addressed the audience in connection with the art exhibition “ἐν τέχνῃ ἰατρική” (The Art of Medicine), hosted in the foyer of the Department of Medicine. The exhibition celebrates the creative dialogue between art and medical science, demonstrating how artistic expression can enrich the university environment and the everyday experience of its academic community.
One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony belonged to the students themselves. Student representatives from each year of study, originating from Cyprus, Nigeria and Syria, shared their personal experiences, challenges, expectations and valuable advice on studying medicine and navigating university life. Their contributions created a meaningful connection between returning and newly admitted students, fostering a spirit of solidarity, mutual support and belonging within the Program.
The event was attended by faculty members, specialized educational and technical staff, and administrative personnel of the Department of Medicine, whose presence reflected the collective commitment of the academic community to supporting its new students.
The Department of Medicine of the University of Thessaly extends its warmest wishes to all students, faculty and administrative staff for a productive, healthy and inspiring academic year.
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