The HQAA/ADIP is an independent agency created in 2005 under Greek law and EU regulations and its mission is the quality assessment of Greek universities and TEI (technical institutes). The agency also submits recommendations to the minister of Education on the restructuring of the Greek higher education system system.

When asked about his latest appointment, Dr. Coufoudakis placed emphasis on his agency's mission, which is aimed to improve Greek higher education to the benefit students, faculty and Greek society at large. “This important assignment may be my final contribution to the land of my origin, he said. “This is why I accepted the offer of Minister Arvanitopoulos to take on this important challenge.” The Continuing Committee on Cultural Affairs of the Greek Parliament confirmed his appointment at a hearing held September 20.

Dr. Coufoudakis has written extensively on Greece-U.S. relations, U.S. policy in the eastern Mediterranean and southeastern Europe, and the Cyprus problem.  He served in the Indiana University system in various academic and administrative capacities. His last position was that of rector of the University of Nicosia in Nicosia, Cyprus.

According to Nick Larigakis, President of AHI,, “we wish Dr. Coufoudakis the best as he tackles the challenges of his new endeavor.  We stand ready to assist him, if needed, as he pursues his goals and objectives.”