Developmental Center of Thessaly

Developmental Center of Thessaly (AKETH), located in Trikala, is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing equal access to knowledge, fostering sustainability and well-being, and creating a brighter future for all. Having the dual role of Vocational Training Center and Developmental Center, it acts in the direction of contributing to employment and addressing wider social challenges, as well as increasing the competitiveness and development of small and medium enterprises in the region of Thessaly. Through diverse training programs it creates career prospects for both young and adult participants. Our main objective is to encourage entrepreneurship and individual initiative as a solution to high unemployment rates, particularly in southeastern Europe.

Our Mission

Our mission is to drive positive change in society and business by delivering innovative solutions that address complex challenges. Our approach involves pushing the limits of what can be achieved through research, innovation, and cooperation, all with the goal of shaping a better future.

Certifications / Awards

AKETH is certifiied VET provider by the National Accreditation Organization for Vocational Training/Skills and has been certified as adult educators/trainers examination center by E.O.P.P.E.P.’s [National Organisation for the Certification of Qualifications & Vocational Guidance (EOPPEP)].

AKETH has been awarded for the implementation of its exemplary vocational education and training projects under Leonardo da Vinci programme over the year 2011 from the Greek State Scholarships Foundation (IKY - Greek National Agency).

Aketh is a member of:

• the Hellenic Association of Continuing Vocational Training Centers.
• the European Network for Transfer and Exploitation of EU Project Results
• the Drop’pin community -Europe’s youth opportunities platform
• EPALE membership community for Adult Learning in Europe

Key Personnel of EU Projects Directorate

Achilleas Kostoulas
Achilleas Kostoulas
Head of Eu Projects Directorate
Achilleas Kostoulas is the head of the EU projects Directorate of AKETH-DCT. He holds a degree in mechanical engineering and three master degrees in different scientific fields . He has over 20 years of experience in EU projects and long term teaching experience in Universities, adult education and vocational training.
Gulsah Aksoy-Tzafolia
Gulsah Aksoy-Tzafolia
Gulshah Aksoy holds a degree in Geophysical Engineering and a master degree on Integrating Technology in Education. She has long term experience in coordination and implementation of EU projects, while she is the responsible for AKETH-DCT's network in South-East Europe.
Giannis Papavasileiou
Giannis Papavasileiou
Giannis Papavasileiou holds a degree in Computer Science and a master degree in Education and Instructional Technology. His main expertise is the development and management of e-learning platforms. He is a certified adult instructor with more than 10 years of teaching experience in adult education.
Christos Nistas
Christos Nistas
Christos Nistas holds a Bachelor degree in Economics from the University of Ioannina, Greece. He has experience in managing and coordinating both National and EU funded projects and is currently responsible for the organization of AKETH Innovation STEAM Lab including innovative practices.
Konstantinos Chonias
Konstantinos Chonias
Konstantinos Chonias is member of AKETH-DCT’s IT department, supporting the European Projects Directorate as the resident technical expertise and graphic designer in production of digital and ordinary material in various forms. Currently he is responsible for the 3-D printing lab of AKETH-DCT.
Marios-Dimitrios Bantolas
Marios-Dimitrios Bantolas
Marios-Dimitrios Bantolas is part of AKETH-DCT IT department. He holds an integrated Masters degree in Information and Communication Systems Engineering from the Univercity of the AEGEAN. He is experienced in application development for mobile, web and desktop platforms.