The year 2024 was a milestone for the PHAROS team. Established in 2021, the team officially gained recognition last year. Building on its progress, the team continues its efforts with renewed focus and is setting ambitious goals for the future.
The mission of the team remains steadfast: to preserve and promote the Greek language. This includes maintaining and expanding existing language programs, supporting families to encourage the use of Greek at home, creating opportunities for the language to thrive within the community, and inspiring children to embrace learning Greek.
Last year, the PHAROS Alliance collaborated closely with several public schools facing challenges in their language programs, specifically Coburg West Primary School, Lalor North Primary School, and Northcote High School. This year, it pledges to continue its engagement with these schools and others offering Greek language programs. We encourage everyone involved in Greek language education to stay connected with us.
In a meeting with the Minister for Education in Victoria, Ben Carroll, many significant issues were discussed. These included concerns about Greek language programs in public schools and hopes for their expansion, support for schools facing challenges, the positive impact of introducing Greek in preschool programs and public library activities, initiatives to increase VCE student enrollment, and collaboration between PHAROS and other communities experiencing similar challenges. Additionally, the idea was proposed that PHAROS could serve as a model of action for other communities. Finally, it was emphasised that preserving the Greek language should be recognised as a key element of multicultural policy, beyond its invaluable cultural contributions. The meeting was met with a positive response, and a follow-up is planned for the near future.
The seminars for parents aiming to raise bilingual children were also a resounding success. Our President, Professor Joseph Lo Bianco, shared effective methodologies and strategies to encourage families to speak Greek at home. Efforts in this area will continue throughout the year.
The symposium held in December was an opportunity to hear from educators, academics, parents, and other members of the community, both here in Victoria and in other states and countries. All attendees shared their successes, challenges, and their commitment to continuing efforts to preserve the Greek language in the diaspora.
We will soon publish our goals and activities for the coming year. For more information, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pharos2021, or contact us via email at pharos.au@gmail.com.
Together, we can strengthen the Greek language in our State!
