On Wednesday, October 14, 2026, the Annual Student Research Paper Presentation Competition and Workshop "Showcasing Excellence in Economic Thinking – From the Classroom to the Podium" was held at the Library of the Department of Economics, by the Department's International Economics and Development Laboratory (IEDL).
The initiative aims to enhance the academic writing and research experience of undergraduate students. It transforms coursework into a recognized academic experience, with public presentation and assessment.
The event was welcomed by the Chair of the Department, Professor George Dotsis, and the Director of IEDL, Professor Antonis Bartzokas. This was followed by presentations of eight selected student papers. The topics covered a wide range, from human capital in the age of artificial intelligence and research and development systems, to the energy transition and European economic policy.
Due to the high level of the works, the Evaluation Committee considered two works to be of equal value. The best work awards were awarded to:
- Stavrianna Stathopoulou (Applied Development Economics), for her work on the sectoral impacts of ESG criteria in shipping
- Alexandros Katsaros (European Economic Integration), for his work on the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the shift in EU energy and defense policy
The Mentoring Panel, moderated by postdoctoral researcher Dr. Maria Argyrou, attracted particular interest. In it, the Department’s graduates Claire Antonakaki (Senior Brand Manager, Campari Hellas), Sofia Karadima (Head of Market Intelligence, Actum Group) and Afroditi Stavrogianni (Procurement Analyst, Bank of Greece) shared their experiences of transitioning from studies to the job market. The lively discussion with the students highlighted the value of the Department’s connection with its graduates.
The Department would like to express its sincere gratitude to Mrs. Claire Antonakaki and Campari Hellas for their kind offer of gifts to the two winners of the competition, contributing in practice to rewarding the excellence and research efforts of our students! At the same time, it would like to thank Kritiki Publications for offering books and other gifts to all the students who participated, as well as all the participants, speakers and attendees. The competition will continue next academic year.
More information: https://iedl.econ.uoa.gr/news_and_events/view_event/showcasing_excellence_in_economic_thinking_from_the_classroom_to_the_podium
