The Pharos Alliance has commenced a new campaign to strengthen the presence of the Greek language in Australia, with the initiative titled “Speak Greek on the Radio”.
The program builds on their successful “Speak Greek in March” campaign with the new one concentrating its efforts on promoting the language in the media.
The Pharos Alliance is fostering a collaboration between Greek-language schools, students, and broadcasters.
Their goal is to bring the voices of young Greek Australians to the airwaves while sharing rich cultural content—from monthly traditions and proverbs to historical anecdotes—all recorded by students.
Teachers have already received specially prepared texts, and students are recording segments that will be broadcast on participating stations.
The Pharos Alliance has kicked off the initiative by sending an initial sample audio piece focusing on the month’s traditions with more to follow, and they are encouraging radio stations to air these student recordings between regular programming.
The group has extended an open invitation to all Greek schools, media outlets and community organisations to join in the initiative.
“By working together, the Greek Australian community can ensure that the language thrives for future generations” said Yiota Stavridou, Greek Language Teacher.
“This is our vision, and we thank all the students and educators taking part. Initiatives like these keep our language vibrant and relevant in multicultural Australia.”
Initial recordings that have been made include one by Chrysoula Pappas, a Year 5 student at the Greek Bilingual Program of Lalor North Primary School, who recorded her yiayia’s recipe for koulourakia during holy week.
Other recordings were made by students from schools offering Greek programs, including one by Lenna Dounias, a student at Northcote High School, as well as those by the Year 3 students of the Greek Community of Melbourne’s school in the City, who presented April’s traditions.
For more information on how to participate, schools and radio stations are encouraged to contact the Pharos Alliance.
