Eleven participants from the Northern Territory were able to officially certify the level of their proficiency in the Greek language last week, thanks the Greek Orthodox Community of Darwin and Charles Darwin University (CDU).

The examination – to obtain the Certificate of Attainment in Greek – was held at the university’s Casuarina campus by the newly-appointed CDU head of Greek Studies, Mr George Frazis. The certificate is recognised internationally and the Darwin participants ranged from 10-year-old students to school teachers.

The certificate of Attainment in Greek is held across the world, but there’s never been an examination in Darwin.

CDU media officer Katie Weiss told Neos Kosmos: “The Greek communities came together after finding the much needed financial support to push for this step.”

Associate Professor George Frazis said that was a historic moment for Darwin and the Territory’s Greek community, which now can access a formal qualification Greek approved by the Greek government.

“It is a great example of how CDU is working with the community and strengthening these longstanding, vital relationships,” said Dr Frazis.

The CDU initiative was supported by prominent Hellenic organisations in the NT, including the Friends of Greek Language and Culture and the Guardians of Greek Language and Culture as well as the CDU Foundation.

Exam participant Kaleopy Kypreos said she hoped to receive the qualification to complement her current role as a teacher at the Greek Orthodox School of Darwin.

“This is an opportunity for me to test my knowledge in a friendly and cosy atmosphere at Casuarina campus,” she said.

“Every step for knowledge helps to become a member of a bigger community worldwide, especially when studying a language – and the history, culture and values that come along with it.”

Ioannis Karavokyros, a teacher, said he was surprised by how interesting the exam was, with the questions triggering a deeper understanding of the language and Greek culture.

Examination results will be announced by the Thessaloniki Greek Language Centre in October.