Greece’s universities play a large role in the country’s economy and social life. Educational attainment is relatively high: OECD Education at a Glance 2022 reports that 25 percent of 25-64 year-olds in Greece hold a bachelor’s degree, compared with an OECD average of 19 percent. Master’s and doctoral attainment is lower than the OECD average. That gap between degrees held and skills demanded creates real friction in the job market.
Adult skill levels lag behind most OECD countries. OECD Survey of Adult Skills data show Greek adults aged 25-34 scoring about 255 in literacy, below the OECD average of about 279. Employers report trouble finding candidates whose skills match open roles, while some graduates work in jobs that do not use their training. The economic crisis made this worse by shrinking the number of openings for young graduates.
Practical experience helps. Internships and traineeships let students apply classroom knowledge and build contacts. Career-focused internship and job placement pages list current options. Students should also keep learning after graduation through short courses and certificates tied to their field. Networking through professional groups opens doors that job boards miss.
Demographic trends add pressure. Birth rates have fallen and many skilled Greeks have moved abroad. Universities can respond by aligning programs with employer needs and by welcoming international students. For students, the strategy is steady: choose a field with demand, gain work experience early, and keep skills current. Internship experience can support a job search.
