Greece is reinventing the way it trains the next generation of hospitality professionals. In a move that blends education, industry, and public asset management, the Greek government is reviving the historic “hotel-school” model—where vocational training takes place within fully operational hotels—while introducing Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to modernize facilities and connect students directly with the tourism sector.
This initiative aims to strengthen Greece’s position as a global tourism leader while ensuring practical, high-quality education for its workforce.
A recent meeting between Greek National Economy and Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis and Greek Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogianni focused on finalizing a Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD) that will set the legal and institutional framework for the initiative, paving the way for modernized, sustainable tourism schools.
Reviving the Hotel-School tradition
The reform reintroduces the hotel-school concept, a proven approach that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience in fully operational hotels.
Inspired by successful international models, the plan ensures that students gain real-world skills while contributing to the economic use of public buildings.
Key features of the new framework include:
- Leasing educational facilities with hotel-building licenses through international tenders for up to 99 years.
- Obligations for investors to modernize, maintain, and ensure energy efficiency in the buildings.
- Continuation of educational programs without interruption, preserving their public, tuition-free nature.
- Oversight of curricula and teaching maintained by the Ministry of Tourism.
Historical Evolution of Tourism Education in Greece
- 1930s–1950s: The foundations
Tourism education began in Greece with the establishment of schools by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), aimed at professionalizing hospitality and catering. These programs laid the foundation for the country’s skilled workforce in the sector.
1960s–1970s: The rise of Hotel-Schools
The Greek Ministry of Tourism launched specialized hotel schools, including the renowned institution in Anavyssos. Modeled in part on Switzerland’s dual education system, these schools combined classroom instruction with hands-on training in state-run hotels, producing many of the nation’s early hospitality leaders.
- 1980s–1990s: Expansion and integration
As tourism boomed, vocational schools multiplied. However, the hotel-school model gradually gave way to classroom-focused training. Many state-owned hotel facilities were underused despite their potential.
- 2000s: Reform and decline of facilities
Administrative changes led to shifting oversight of schools. Although demand for trained staff increased, facilities often lagged behind industry standards. Private academies and international hotel groups began filling the training gap.
- 2010s: Crisis and challenges
The financial crisis further strained tourism education infrastructure. Budget cuts left many facilities outdated, highlighting the need for sustainable, modern solutions.
- 2020s: Reimagining tourism education
In 2023–2024, the government announced a major reform to restore the hotel-school model, integrating PPPs to ensure modern, energy-efficient, and financially sustainable facilities while preserving the public nature of education.
Schools and communities benefiting
The reform targets the Higher Professional Schools of Tourism Education (SAEK) in Anavyssos, Piraeus, and Heraklion (Kokkini Hani). Students at these schools will benefit from modern facilities and practical training, while local communities gain from the revitalization of public properties and the economic activity generated by operational hotel-schools.
By leveraging PPPs, the government aims to combine private-sector efficiency with public oversight. Investors will be contractually obliged to maintain high standards, while the state ensures transparency, sustainability, and continuity of education.
Looking ahead
Tourism accounts for roughly 25% of Greece’s GDP, making this reform not just an educational upgrade, but a strategic investment in one of the country’s most vital industries.
If successful, Greece’s renewed hotel-school model could serve as an international benchmark for combining vocational education, real-world experience, and sustainable management of public assets.
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