The Stelios Philantropic Foundation invests in the next generation of seafaring with 10 scholarships in collaboration with Ωmega Yachting Academy
Two-year program 2025–2027 in “Recreational Vessel Skipper”, with training aboard MY Klelia 1
For the second consecutive year, and with the aim of supporting the new generation of professionals in maritime tourism while meaningfully linking education with hands-on experience, the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation is offering ten (10) scholarships for two-year studies (academic years 2025–2027) in the “Recreational Vessel Skipper” program, implemented in collaboration with Ωmega Yachting Academy.
As part of the launch of the new academic cycle, the scholarship recipients held their first meeting of 2026 aboard the training vessel MY Klelia 1, located at Zea Marina. The historic MY Klelia 1 was the first yacht owned by the late Loukas Haji-Ioannou and today operates as a floating educational environment, providing practical training under real-life conditions.
Training with an emphasis on practice
The program combines theoretical instruction with hands-on experience in real yachting conditions. Training takes place two days per week aboard MY Klelia 1, offering students substantial exposure to the profession and the demands of the industry.
During their studies, scholarship recipients are trained, among other subjects, in basic nautical terminology, fundamental principles of maritime law, practical navigation and crew operations, as well as a comprehensive introduction to the world of yachting and its professional prospects.
The objective of the program is to develop well-rounded professionals equipped with technical skills, maritime awareness, and a solid understanding of the modern maritime tourism market.
Continuous investment in vocational education
This initiative forms part of the broader strategy of the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation to support vocational education programs with immediate professional impact.
Implemented under the initiative and vision of Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the program has now entered its second year of successful operation, reaffirming the Foundation’s long-standing commitment to vocational education with tangible social and developmental impact.
For the academic years 2025–2027, ten full scholarships were awarded under the name “Loukas Haji-Ioannou Scholarships”, in memory of Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou’s father, with a total value of €56,000. In addition, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou has established a supplementary financial award of €1,000 for each scholarship recipient upon successful completion of their studies, providing concrete recognition of effort and excellence.
Through initiatives such as this, the Foundation reaffirms its enduring commitment to offering young people meaningful educational and professional development opportunities in dynamic and growing sectors of the Greek economy.