As part of Nikos Hardalias’ strategy to further strengthen the cultural and educational ties of the Region of Attica with the youth of the Greek Diaspora, a group of students aged 14–16 from the Greek School of Melbourne visited the Regional Administration Headquarters.

The program, launched last year on the initiative of Mr. Hardalias, gives students from Greek schools and Greek-speaking university programs abroad the opportunity to experience firsthand the culture, history, and traditions of Greece, with a focus on the Attica region.

Welcoming the Students

The students from Melbourne were welcomed by Deputy Regional Governor Christina Kefalogianni, who said:

“It is very important to maintain this connection so that Greeks abroad feel that this program fosters acceptance and pride in our roots. We want the children of the Greek Diaspora to learn about everything that is part of our history and identity and to understand the special significance of Greek heritage. Only through education can we shape aware citizens capable of conveying the positive message of Greek continuity, both for Greece and for the European family.”

Remarks from the Greek Community of Melbourne

Vasilis Papastergiadis, President of the Greek Community of Melbourne and Commissioner of the Multicultural Council of Victoria, warmly thanked the Regional Governor of Attica and all involved in the initiative. He said:

“I feel great joy and emotion to be here today with you. This is one of the best programs a young Greek from the Diaspora could experience, and the participants are truly fortunate to enjoy it thanks to the initiative and support of the Region of Attica.”

Program Activities

During their stay in Greece, Greek-speaking students participate in a rich one-week program of cultural and educational activities, including visits to historical and archaeological sites, museums, and notable tourist attractions.

During their meeting with the Deputy Regional Governor, the students from Melbourne shared their experiences and expressed their enthusiasm for the natural beauty, cultural monuments, healthy climate, and unique flavors of Attica. Many of the students also expressed a desire to return to Greece for further studies or even permanent residence.

Expansion and Future Goals

This is the second time that students from Melbourne have participated in the program. Last May, Regional Governor Nikos Hardalias welcomed students from the Greek Studies Department of Shanghai University in Athens. The strategic goal is for the program to become an established institution and expand to include other diaspora schools and Greek-speaking universities worldwide.

Present at the visit of the Melbourne students to the Regional Administration Headquarters were the Special Secretary of the Region of Attica, Elena Rapti, and the Deputy Director of the Regional Governor’s Office, Dimitris Tarazonas.