Continuing its long-standing policy of supporting and promoting Greek-language education abroad, the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports has officially recognised two new Greek Language Departments (TEGs) in Europe: the Greek Language Department in Prague, Czech Republic, and the Greek Language Department in Toulon-Var, France.

The recognition of these two new institutions marks another significant step in promoting the Greek language, preserving Greece’s cultural heritage, and strengthening ties between younger generations of the Greek diaspora and their homeland. The Ministry is further supporting Greek-language education programs by seconding teachers and educational staff.

Minister of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports Sofia Zacharaki said:

“One way to measure Greece’s presence in the world is through its language. The Greek language has travelled far and wide over the centuries. Our decision to recognise the new Greek Language Departments in Prague and Toulon is an act of trust in the Greeks of the diaspora, in the families who keep their identity alive, and in our children who continue to learn the language of their ancestors, even thousands of kilometres from their homeland.

“In every classroom where Greek is spoken, a small bridge to Greece is built—a bridge of culture, memory and hope. That is why supporting Greek-language education abroad is a national priority for us. We are continuing, with a clear strategy and consistency, to expand the global network for teaching the Greek language, because Hellenism is defined not only by where it is lived, but also by the language it passes on to future generations.”

The Prague Greek Language Department, which has 98 enrolled students, is the only organised educational institution dedicated to teaching the Greek language and culture in the Czech capital. Its recognition fulfils a long-standing request from the Greek Community of Prague and strengthens its ability to receive educational materials and, where necessary, seconded teaching staff.

Similarly, the Greek Language Department in Toulon-Var, with 57 enrolled students, has now officially joined the network of recognised Greek Language Departments (TEGs) in France, meeting the educational needs of the Greek community in Toulon and the wider Var department. The recognition further strengthens the school’s ability to teach the Greek language and pass on Greek cultural heritage to younger generations.

It should be noted that in March 2025, Minister Sofia Zacharaki also recognised four Greek Language Departments:

• Logos Ellinikos of Yerevan, Armenia;
• The Greek School of Wales, United Kingdom;
• Nagold, Baden-Württemberg, Germany; and
• Aix-en-Provence, France.

With its continued commitment to supporting Greek-language education, the Ministry is expanding the global network for teaching Greek, strengthening the presence and influence of Hellenism in every corner of the world.