Establishment of a local branch of the Hellenic Institute of Transport (HIT) in Rhodes island, oriented in Transport and Tourism.
The Hellenic Institute of Transport (HIT) is part of the Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), which is a non-profit organisation that directly reports to the General Secretariat for Research and Technology (GSRT) of the Greek Ministry of Development and Investments.
The Rhodes branch is Transport and Tourism oriented and aims at promoting innovative solutions throughout the Region of South Aegean and providing support on challenges that may arise, especially during the high peak touristic season of summer. The research institute cooperates with the South Aegean Regional Authority and local stakeholders and may provide solutions in the form of actions and measures throughout the islands.
HIT's main objective is the conduct and support of applied research activities in the field of transportation in Greece, more specifically on issues relating to the organisation, operation, planning and development of infrastructure, the standardisation, economic analysis, management, vehicle technology and the impact assessment of land, maritime, air, and multimodal transport services. HIT's services also include the delivery of training and education activities in related fields, the dissemination of research activities and the representation of Greece in Transport Research and other relevant scientific fora abroad.
Resources needed
The Institute activity is funded by European, National and Regional funds through participation to research projects. Resources may vary depending on staff number and available projects.
Evidence of success
HIT's presence in Rhodes with its know-how on combined research in Transport and Tourism, creates development pillars in the South Aegean, making the Region a forefront for corresponding actions across Europe. In its few years of operation, the HIT branch in Rhodes has already participated in three European research projects such as SAFEMODE, which is of major interest for the whole region.
Potential for learning or transfer
The presence of CERTH-HIT in the Region of South Aegean will create a dipole of development in the area putting this region at the forefront of similar Pan-European actions. Moreover, focused research on relevant subjects and issues that have a decisive role in the economic and social life of the islands of Greece, may provide solutions and enhance local economies. The goal is not just to be a local office, but to become the first Research Institute in Tourism in Europe in the capital of Greek tourism and one of the largest tourist destinations, the capital of European tourism research. Furthermore, actions and collaborations with other research institutes and universities and the improved attractiveness of the region in terms of transportation and tourism can be transferred throughout the country and in similar regions in Europe.
Tags: Islands, Mobility, Tourism, Transport
