The PHAROS Alliance has reported a major step-up in international recognition for its research-led work to sustain Modern Greek in the diaspora, following a packed program in Greece by its President, Professor Emeritus Joseph Lo Bianco.
“There is clear consensus that Greek language maintenance abroad needs a research-driven redesign,” said Prof. Lo Bianco. “PHAROS is ready with a practical plan—and we’re building the partnerships to deliver it.
At Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), in partnership with the Greek Applied Linguistics Association, Prof. Lo Bianco delivered the opening keynote at the ELLME-25 Conference, convened by Professor Thomai Alexiou (Head of English, AUTH).
Thessaloniki: ELLME-25 keynote + hands-on workshop
- Attendance: 150 delegates from 17 countries.
- Focus: An overview of contemporary language-policy theory, charting its optimism, critique and reform phases and the case for a “new design” to support Greek abroad, grounded in research.
- Workshop: A practical session with 45 participants (mostly Greece-based) explored implementation, with strong interest in the PHAROS approach.
During the visit, Prof. Lo Bianco met Deputy Minister for Education Nikolaos Papaioannou, presenting his book ‘Pharos -The vitality and presence of Modern Greek in contemporary Australia (2021)’. The meeting underscored awareness at senior government level of PHAROS initiatives.
Athens: EKPA forum on policy & practice
In Athens, Prof. Lo Bianco was guest keynote at an international seminar hosted by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA) and the Research Institute for Language Policy and Multilingualism (EIPOL) at EKPA’s new linguistics centre.
Senior officials from multiple ministries participated, with a message from the Education Minister.
Professor Emerita Bessie Dendrinos outlined EIPOL’s European and Greece-specific remit; Dr Kia Karavas led opening discussions on drafting new language policies underpinned by research.
A panel on “Revitalisation of Greek in Australia” featured: Dr Stephie Nikoloudis (La Trobe University), Professor Irini-Tsamadou Jacoberger (University of Strasbourg), Dr Eleni Sella (EIPOL), with additional perspectives linking Istanbul, Strasbourg, Greece, South Africa, the US, Canada and Argentina.
Chair: Dr Maria Iakovou (EIPOL). The session highlighted PHAROS as a scalable, evidence-based model and catalysed follow-up planning with academics and public officials.
Concluding the trip, Prof. Lo Bianco met Education Minister Sofia Zacharaki for a forward-looking briefing on PHAROS’ vision and next steps. The discussion was described as constructive and probing, with agreement to continue dialogue on Greek language maintenance in the diaspora.
A recording of the EKPA event is available via the University’s channels.
Back in Victoria: programs & participation
Free Greek Cinema for Children: Save the date
In partnership with the Victorian Department of Education, PHAROS Alliance will host a free family screening during Children’s Week 2025.
When: Sunday, 19 October 2025
Details: Program and venue to be announced.
Greek Storytime – Expressions of Interest now open
Greek Storytime welcomes pre-school children of all abilities to discover Greek through engaging, interactive storytelling (some sessions include Key Word Sign). The program is free and currently runs at:
Doncaster, Glenroy, Malvern, Northcote, Richmond, Oakleigh libraries and the Clayton Community Centre.
New sites sought: Mornington (SE), Thomastown/Lalor (North), St Albans or Point Cook (West).
EOI form: Use the QR code on the flyer or the short link provided by PHAROS.
Media enquiries: Evie – 0403 612 388.
