Greek farmers are struggling to address modern agricultural challenges with outdated training, according to a new study by Greek think tank diaNEOsis. Dr Michalis Katharakis, author of the study, said, “It’s like trying to tackle 21st-century challenges with 20th-century tools.”
The report highlights that only 0.7% of Greek farmers have received comprehensive training, compared to the EU average of 10.2% (Eurostat). Despite agriculture contributing 4% to Greece’s GDP, low participation in training by younger farmers (25%) and professionals (6.7%) hampers growth and competitiveness.
Katharakis, director of the Technical Schools of the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce, analyzed training models in nations like Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark. The report recommends establishing five regional agricultural training centers in Greece within five years, integrating international best practices adapted to local needs.
Additional proposals include tiered education programs, interactive online platforms, and experimental farms to modernize Greek agriculture and enhance global competitiveness.