The Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH) is a public higher education institution founded in 1973, based in Komotini, Thrace. It was named after the ancient philosopher Democritus and was established with the mission of strengthening university education and development in the border region of Thrace.

Today, DUTH operates across multiple cities in Thrace, comprising a total of 10 Faculties and 28 Departments that cover a wide range of scientific fields. From humanities and social sciences to natural sciences, technology, health sciences, and agricultural development, the university offers diverse study programs. It stands out for its research and educational work at both national and international levels, contributing to scientific progress while collaborating with local society for knowledge transfer and innovation.

The Department of Agricultural Development was founded in 1999 and is based in Orestiada. Its mission is to cultivate and promote the science of Agronomy, with a focus on new technological advancements, developments in economic and social growth, and the technical and social processes of rural development, especially in agricultural and borderland areas.

Within the framework of OLIVEUP, DUTH is a key partner providing scientific validation and innovation. With the expertise of its research teams (e.g., in agricultural and environmental sciences), the university contributes to the development and evaluation of innovative olive cultivation methods. Its participation ensures that project activities are grounded in solid scientific foundations, while also enhancing the credibility and dissemination of results to both the academic community and the agricultural sector.