2027 Microsymposiums

2027 Microsymposiums Organized by the Athens Institute

(A microsymposium is one or more special sessions which are thematic and are organized as part of one of our general (non-thematic) conferences. If you want to organize such a thematic event, please review our policy and guidelines, for more details)

10-15 May 2026
Managing Independent Open Access Journals: Sustainability, Accessibility, and Challenges in Contemporary Scholarly Publishing
as part of the 25th Annual International Conference on Communication and Mass Media
Academic Responsible: Dr. John Pavlik, Head, Mass Media and Communication Unit, Athens Institute & Professor, Rutgers University, USA.
This microsymposium explores the evolving role of independent Open Access journals in scholarly communication. It will examine key issues related to sustainability, accessibility, editorial management, quality assurance, visibility, and publishing ethics. The session aims to foster discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing independent OA journals and their contribution to the future of academic publishing.
Deadline: 13 October 2026
7-12 June 2027
Diaspora Identity through Time and Generation
as part of the 18th Annual International Conference on Visual and Performing Arts
Academic Responsible: Dr. Maria-Irini Avgoulas, Academic Member, Athens Institute & Casual Academic, School of Health, Medical & Applied Sciences, CQUniversity Australia and Cultural Counselling and Consultancy, Australia
Diaspora communities are found throughout the world and exist on a continuum regardless of generation.The experience of diaspora identity and the transmission of memory culture that supports identity maintenance may vary by generation, the original migrants and their descendants born in diaspora. Diaspora community members of all generations may maintain a sense of nostalgia but also negativity – such not belonging to either their original homeland or the host community, racism and stigma. This may be expressed as having two homelands and, in a sense, belonging to both. While potentially enriching, diaspora identity may in fact be more like belonging nowhere and being a stranger in both cultures.
Deadline: 10 November 2026
28-30 June & 1-3 July 2027
Apprenticeships
as part of the 25th Annual International Conference on Management
Academic Responsible:
Dr. Evangelos Xevelonakis, Professor, HWZ Zurich University of Applied Sciences in Business Administration, Switzerland

This microsymposium explores apprenticeship systems and their role in supporting skills development, workforce preparation, and the transition from education to employment. It addresses key issues related to the design, implementation, governance, and future development of apprenticeship programmes across different national and institutional contexts. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the quality and effectiveness of apprenticeships; policy frameworks; the role of employers, education and training providers, and social partners; work-based learning; skills development and lifelong learning; labour market relevance; digital and green skills; inclusion and accessibility; innovation in apprenticeship models; funding and governance approaches; and comparative perspectives on apprenticeship systems. Contributions may examine national and regional experiences, research findings, policy developments, challenges, and good practices aimed at enhancing the quality, attractiveness, and impact of apprenticeships as a pathway for education, employment, and professional development.

Particular attention is also given to the impact of digitalisation, artificial intelligence, automation, and other emerging technologies on apprenticeship systems. Relevant themes include digital, green, and AI-related skills; innovation in apprenticeship models; AI-supported learning, mentoring, and assessment; the use of data and learning analytics; and the implications of technological change for occupational profiles, curriculum design, and workforce development.
Deadline: 1 December 2026