The Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH) is organizing its 14th Scientific Retreat on Friday 11, Saturday 12, and Sunday 13 October 2024, to be held at the Conference Center of the International Olympic Academy (IOA) in Ancient Olympia, the patronage of H.E. the President of the Hellenic Republic Ms. Katerina Sakellaropoulou. The location of this year’s Retreat, which coincides with an Olympic year, was selected to highlight the close link between research and culture and their mutual contribution to human progress.

As part of the Retreat, a Celebratory Event will take place on Friday, 11 October 2024, from 19:00 to 21:30.

The FORTH Scientific Retreat, held biennially, features a scientific program addressed to FORTH members, aiming to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as a celebratory event open to the general public. The Celebratory Event will be held at the “Dimitrios Vikelas” Amphitheater of the IOA, with Guest Speaker Mr. Isidoros Kouvelos, President of the International Olympic Academy, who will deliver a lecture entitled:

“The Contribution of Technology to the Evolution of the Olympic Movement.”

The President of FORTH, Professor Nektarios Tavernarakis, will present the achievements and growth of the Foundation throughout its 40-year history. The event will conclude with the presentation of awards to Distinguished Members of FORTH, Research Awards, as well as Awards for Service to FORTH, honoring employees who have stood out for their exceptional contribution and dedication.

The Scientific Retreat is supported by the Region of Crete (Regional Development Fund of Crete) and the Region of Western Greece.

Commenting on the event, the President of FORTH, Professor Nektarios Tavernarakis, stated:

“It is with great pleasure that we are organizing the 14th FORTH Scientific Retreat, which constitutes an excellent opportunity for interaction among FORTH research teams, the development of interdisciplinary collaborations, and the strengthening of the Foundation’s outward-looking character. The choice of Ancient Olympia carries strong symbolic value, as learning, research, and innovation—cultivated within the unique interdisciplinary environment created by the Foundation—are key tools for preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. At the same time, the celebratory event that is part of this initiative offers society the opportunity to become acquainted with FORTH and its research activities.”

FORTH warmly thanks its Platinum Sponsor, EKTER S.A., its Gold Sponsors: Motor Oil (Hellas) – Corinth Refineries S.A., Minoan Lines S.A., Theodoridis Bros. & Co. (MINIMA TRAVEL / AIRSHOP), A. Selidis S.A. (ANTISEL), P. Galanis & Co. (LAB SUPPLIES SCIENTIFIC), MALVA S.A., Drakakis S.A. Contracting Enterprises, as well as its Silver and Bronze Sponsors, suppliers, and partners of FORTH, for their valuable contribution to the successful organization of the event.

Event website: https://www.forth.gr/en/14th-forth-retreat/

Please note that photos and videos will be taken during the celebratory event, which will be used to promote the event to the media.