AKTO (Athenian Artistic & Technological Group)

Mission Statement

AKTO is the premier non-state institution for Art & Design education in Greece, where artistic tradition meets the transformative power of innovation. For over half a century, our mission has been to empower young people, helping them showcase their talents and skills while discovering their unique creative voice. We offer an inspiring academic environment, providing an unforgettable educational experience in the arts and design.

At AKTO, we uphold integrity, diversity, freedom of thought and creativity, civic responsibility, professionalism, and sustainability. We embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and multicultural awareness while promoting respect, inclusion, and ethical behaviour, in academic and creative practice. Our supportive community ensures every student thrives in a dynamic academic environment linked to the arts and design. With a student-centred approach, we offer tailored studies that make university life an unforgettable journey towards a successful creative career.

International Role

Since 1991, AKTO has been a pioneer in Greek Art & Design education as the first institution to achieve programme validation from a British university. Our strategic partnership with Middlesex University has set a benchmark for excellence, offering eight BA (Hons) and three MA programmes that meet global standards. Many of these programmes were unique to Greece and Middlesex University’s curriculum at the time, highlighting AKTO’s innovative approach to higher education.

This longstanding collaboration has not only inspired other Greek institutions to pursue international partnerships but also opened global opportunities for AKTO students. Our students engage with renowned organisations such as the UK’s Architectural Association, Parsons School of Design (USA), and the University for the Creative Arts (UK). The quality of our programmes is upheld through regular assessments by the independent external examiners who collaborate with AKTO, by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) and by Middlesex University.

National Role

AKTO is at the forefront of Art and Design education in Greece, seamlessly combining academic excellence with industry innovation. AKTO holds extensive collaborations with industry, cultural institutions, public organisations, and NGOs, and has established partnerships that enhance the educational experience and provide students with valuable professional opportunities.

Collaborations with companies such as Artemida, Campari, Epson, Feelgood Entertainment, Hewlett Packard, Jägermeister, Kaiser beer, La Roche, Medasset, Mercedes-Benz, Michelin, Montblanc, Motorola, Notos Galleries, Oozoo, Red Bull, Roche Pharmaceuticals, and Samsung give students unique opportunities to work on real-world projects, participate in competitions, and gain industry exposure.

AKTO works with NGOs such as The Smile of the Child, SOS Children’s Villages, Save a Greek Stray and Safe Water Sports, commissioning creative projects that enable students to apply their skills whilst contributing to meaningful social causes.

Cultural partnerships with institutions like the Benaki Museum and participation in events such as Art Athina, Pecha Kucha Nights, the Graphic Design & Illustration Awards, the Greek Association of Graphic Designers, the Hermes Awards, Anima Syros, the Athens Xclusive Designers Week, the PanHellenic Fur Design Competition, and Photovision immerse students in Greece’s vibrant cultural and creative landscape.

Collaborations with the Municipality of Athens, the British Embassy, the Hellenic Air Force, and the Ministry of Employment provide students with opportunities to contribute to public sector projects, merging civic responsibility with creative practice.

AKTO also organises seminars, workshops, and lectures featuring industry leaders, ensuring that students stay connected to contemporary trends and practices while preparing for the demands of the global creative economy. By linking education with professional networks, AKTO equips its students to excel in their careers. Its extensive collaborations make AKTO a hub for creativity, innovation, and professional growth, solidifying its reputation as a cornerstone of Art and Design education in Greece.

Main Focus

AKTO is committed to providing top-quality education in Art & Design, continuously enhancing its undergraduate, postgraduate, and lifelong learning programmes. With a focus on innovation and excellence, we strive to maintain our status as Greece’s leading private institution in the creative industries, empowering students to excel in a global landscape.