The Greek Community of Melbourne Schools officially farewelled their VCE graduates, bidding them the best of luck as they move on to the next phase of their lives.
The GCM Schools held their graduation ceremony for the students last Saturday at the Greek Centre, with members of the Board of Directors and the Education Committee, including Eleni Chiotis and Spyridoula Demetriou, present to congratulate them.
The ceremony was hosted by Maria Bakalidou, Principal of GCM Schools, with Professor Nikos Papastergiadis from the University of Melbourne delivering a keynote address.
Professor Papastergiadis highlighted the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the graduates as they embark on the next stage of their lives following the completion of their secondary education.
This year’s ceremony honoured the accomplishments of 46 students who completed their studies in Modern Greek and five students who graduated in Ancient Greek.
Teachers Anthi Tzani, Eleni Demetriou, and Odysseas Kripotos all shared their pride and emotions, praising the students for their dedication, progress, and effort.
Bakalidou stated the ceremony is a celebration for the students as well as for the entire school community.
“We are incredibly proud of these young individuals who continue to uphold the Greek language and culture and achieve their goals through hard work and perseverance,” Bakalidou said in their official announcement on the event.
“We hope they carry forward the same passion, determination, and vision into their adult lives, fulfilling their dreams.”
Following the official ceremony, the evening shifted into a true Greek celebration with students and teachers joining together in singing, dancing, and enjoying live music.
The Greek Community of Melbourne concluded by once more congratulating the students and wishing them good fortune in their future endeavours, saying:
“Their progress and contribution will serve as shining examples of the enduring value of Greek education and the cultural heritage it embodies.”
