Major boost for Greek language in Australia as Summer University heads to Sydney
Source: NEOS KOSMOS
In a post that filled the community with much anticipation, Professor Nikoletta Tsitsanoudi–Mallidi from the University of Ioannina, announced that the next stop for the International Summer University “Greek Language, Culture and Media” in 2026 will be Sydney.
A vibrant, multicultural city with a strong imprint of the Greek community is preparing to host an institution that has served the Greek language and culture for years with consistency and passion.
The event, which will be organised in collaboration with the distinguished Oceania researcher Dr Vasilis Adrahtas and a team of experienced partners, promises to leave a lasting impression. The television spot for the program will feature acclaimed director and actor of the National Theatre of Greece and the NTNG, Akilas Karazisis, offering an artistic dimension that aligns with the philosophy of the institution.
The news was welcomed enthusiastically by Dr Adrahtas, who stated that the collaboration is a “joy and honour”, expressing confidence in the success of an institution that now “constitutes a key point of reference for the global Greek diaspora”. Professor Tsitsanoudi–Mallidi, known for her constant advocacy for the Greek language, responded by saying that “the honour is mutual” and that the shared goal is “the promotion of the Greek language and culture”.
She is no stranger to the diaspora. With an impressive academic career, the authorship of 20 books, significant collaborations with Harvard, and many years of contribution as founder of the Summer University, she is one of the most active Greek academics abroad. Her work has left a lasting impact on students, educators and media professionals.
At the same time, a parallel initiative is set to further strengthen Australia’s connection with Greek education. According to SBS, the Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation is joining forces with the University of Ioannina for an important program: hosting 13 students in Ioannina for a Greek-language “winter school”, from 15 January to 14 February 2026.
The program is aimed at beginner students and includes intensive Greek learning as well as visits to historical sites across Epirus and northern Greece: Metsovo, Ioannina Castle, the Silversmithing Museum, Zagori, Vergina, the Averoff Gallery. All expenses are fully covered by the Macquarie foundation, while the program is implemented in cooperation with DIKEPPEE “Stavros Niarchos”.
In a message, Professor Tsitsanoudi–Mallidi expressed her excitement for a “hopeful and productive collaboration” that will further strengthen the network of Greek language and culture in Australia.
Thus, 2026 is expected to be a milestone year for the Greek language in Oceania. With Sydney at the centre and a series of initiatives embracing the Greek community, the journey of Greek education continues with even greater momentum.
The original article: belongs to NEOS KOSMOS .
