Greek studies get a $450,000 push start at CDU

The 'Guardians of Greek' program at the Charles Darwin University (CDU) has raised $450,000 to promote the expansion of Greek Studies in Australia's top end.

Over 100 guests and dignitaries attended this event, which was officially launched by The Hon Konstantine Vatskalis MLA at Northern Territory Parliament House on 4 May.
The Greek Guardians program is an initiative with the intention of financing CDU's Greek Language and Culture program through the CDU Foundation. Their overall aim is to support Greek language, culture and heritage so that it continues to flourish in the Northern Territory, utilising the resources of both individuals and businesses who wish to become involved in the new phase of action in Greek Language and Culture at CDU.

Prominent residents of Northern Territory spoke at the event, including Mr Vatskalis, who spoke on behalf of himself and the Northern Territory Chief Minister to thank the Greek Guardians for their commitment to the program.
Former Honorary Consul of Greece in Darwin Mr George Kapetas AM spoke for the Friends of Greek committee, confirming their pledge to aid in the formation of a prestigious, internationally recognised program for the undergraduate and postgraduate study of Greek at CDU.

These words were welcomed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Barney Glover of CDU, who named over 30 individuals, families and businesses involved in the 'Guardians of Greek' program who had already raised $450,000 to help achieve their goals. He also revealed that CDU was developing a new language centre to teach Greek, Mandarin and Bahasa Indonesian.