Students from the Greek Community of Melbourne schools have returned from Greece with memories to last a lifetime, following their participation in a major cultural and educational hospitality program hosted by the Region of Attica.

The young participants of the Cultural and Educational Camp (CEC) immersed themselves in the country’s rich history, traditions, and natural beauty. From learning traditional Greek dances at the Dora Stratou Theatre, to visiting world-renowned landmarks including Mycenae, Nafplio, the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, Delphi, Galaxidi, Sounio, and of course the Acropolis, the students were surrounded by Greece’s living heritage.

Students visited the Panathenaic Stadium, home of the first modern Olympic Games.

The program also offered them exclusive experiences such as a behind-the-scenes tour of the Presidential Guard’s Evzones camp and the Hellenic Parliament.

The students were officially welcomed at the headquarters of the Region of Attica, as part of Governor Nikos Hardalias’ broader strategy to strengthen cultural and educational ties between Attica and the Diaspora’s youth.

Students of the Greek Community of Melbourne presenting a commemorative gift at the Region of Attica headquarters.

Deputy Governor Christina Kefalogianni highlighted the importance of such initiatives: “It is vital to preserve this connection so that Greeks abroad feel proud of their roots. Through this program, children of the Diaspora can discover our history and identity, and understand the special weight carried by Greek heritage. Only through education can we shape conscious citizens, capable of carrying the message of Greek continuity for both Greece and the wider European family.”

Melbourne students outside the Presidential Guard camp during their exclusive tour.

A program with vision

Launched last year by Governor Hardalias, the program invites students from Greek community schools and Greek-speaking university departments abroad to experience Greece first-hand. This year marked the second time Melbourne students took part, while earlier this year the Region of Attica hosted students from the Department of Greek Studies at Shanghai University.

Visiting the iconic Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio was among the highlights of the cultural program.

The President of the Greek Community of Melbourne and Commissioner at the Victorian Multicultural Commission, Bill Papastergiadis, praised the initiative:

“This is one of the best programs any young member of the Diaspora could experience. The participants are truly fortunate to enjoy such an opportunity thanks to the vision and support of the Region of Attica.”

Students and teachers from Melbourne at the historic Zappeion Hall in Athens.

During their week-long stay, the students shared their excitement about Greece’s historic monuments, cultural treasures, healthy climate, and unique cuisine. According to the Region’s statement, many even expressed their wish to return for further studies, or to settle permanently.

The long-term goal, as outlined by Governor Hardalias, is for the program to become an established institution, expanding to include more Diaspora schools and Greek-speaking university departments worldwide.

Present at the students’ visit to the Regional headquarters were Secretary-General of Attica, Elena Rapti, and Deputy Director of the Governor’s Office, Dimitris Tarazonas.