$1 million has been pledged by the SA Liberals to secure the future of Modern Greek, by the Shadow Education Minister David Pisoni.
Speaking at the LOGOS Australian Centre for Hellenic Language and Culture at Flinders University, Mr Pisoni said LOGOS would receive more than $1 million over three years to finalise its online program, provide scholarships for Modern Greek students and bring online Modern Greek courses to primary schools.
Professor Michael Tsianikias, the director of the LOGOS Centre, said this is a very positive step forward for the future of Modern Greek in Australia, as we are looking to build solid foundations by ensuring the education of primary school students.
Mr Tsianikas said the extra funding offered by the government would enable development of online courses so Modern Greek is offered at every year level in primary school.
“All language programs in Australia – but in particular the Greek language – are going to face a huge challenge because there will be not enough teachers around or budgets to support all programs to all schools,” said Mr Tsianikas. He said it’s up to the Greek community “to sit down and find a solution and be proactive and offer some solutions to the governments to deliver”.
“They have to sit down and discuss and invest in the future by creating better environments for the kids and much better programs for the the schools,” said Mr Tsianikas.
The funding will only be made available if the Liberal Government win the March 15 state election. And the current polls are showing an indication that SA is set for a Liberal leadership following next weekend’s election.
“As Minister for Education, I will work to ensure students of all ages and backgrounds in South Australia have the opportunity to study Modern Greek through to year 12,” said Mr Pisoni if elected.
