The 6th educational module of the pioneering Agrifood Leadership 2024–2025 program was successfully completed, taking place from Friday, April 4 to Sunday, April 6, 2025, in Chania. The focus of this module was on the theme “Rural Economy and Agricultural Policy,” with instructor Mr. Stathis Klonaris, Professor at the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA).
Agrifood Leadership 2024–2025 is implemented by the organization New Agriculture New Generation, through the founding donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), and under the auspices of the Ministry of Rural Development and Food. The technical and strategic advisor of the program is Rutgers University (USA). Sponsor of the 6th educational module was Balantinos Dairy.
During the training, participants had the opportunity to enrich their knowledge through educational activities, field visits, and networking actions, enhancing their leadership skills in the agrifood sector.
On Saturday, participants delved into the structure of rural economy through Mr. Klonaris’ training, which focused on the rural economy of Greece and Europe. He analyzed the key principles and prospects of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) for the 2023–2027 period. Mr. Klonaris highlighted the role of the European Union in shaping agricultural strategy and offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the agricultural sector. The session took place in the impressive hall of the new Archaeological Museum of Chania. We warmly thank Dr. Eleni Papadopoulou, Director of the Archaeological Museum, for providing the space and for the warm hospitality.
On Sunday, participants took part in field educational visits to the Patriotis Winery and the Biolea Olive Mill, where they had the chance to enjoy wine and olive oil tastings and engage in conversations with the companies’ executives, learning more about their philosophy and operations. The day concluded with a visit to Balantinos Dairy, where Mr. Spyros Balandinos, President of the Cheesemakers Association of Chania, guided the group through the facilities and shared his thoughts on the concept of leadership, along with personal experiences and insights from the production sector.
The 6th educational module of Agrifood Leadership offered a complete experience of learning, networking, and inspiration, further enhancing the program’s dynamic as a leadership incubator in the agrifood sector. Starting with the in-depth presentation by Mr. Stathis Klonaris on the Rural Economy and the Common Agricultural Policy 2023–2027, participants gained a substantial understanding of developments at both national and European levels. The module was enriched by visits to exemplary businesses such as Patriotis Winery, Biolea Astrikas Estate, and Balantinos Dairy, providing participants with hands-on exposure to successful entrepreneurial models.
The organization New Agriculture New Generation expresses its sincere thanks to Balantinos Dairy, sponsor of the 6th educational module, for the excellent reception, warm hospitality, impeccable organization, and invaluable support.
