Greek language and culture without borders: Our vision travels to Australia

The heart of Greece beats within its diaspora. This phrase has long accompanied the vision of the International Summer University “Greek Language, Culture, and Media” encapsulating with accuracy the mission of this institution throughout its twelve-year journey. With great honor, responsibility, and emotion, we inaugurate the path toward the 12th International Summer University “Greek Language, Culture, and Media” which will take place in Sydney, Australia, from 7 to 11 September 2026, within the framework of a high-level international collaboration.

This year’s program, centered on the theme “The Greek Language in Australia: From Memory to the Future” seeks to highlight the pivotal role of Greek-language heritage in Australia, to examine its contemporary educational and social challenges, and to lay the foundations for long-term collaborations in the field of Greek language and education.

The program is co-organized by the Laboratory for the Study of Social Issues, Media and Education of School of Education Sciences of University of Ioannina and the Greek Studies Program of the University of New South Wales (UNSW), in cooperation with Unity in Philia, the Foundation for Hellenic Studies UNSW, AHEPA Sydney & NSW, the International Society of Friends of Nikos Kazantzakis – Sydney Branch, numerous diaspora institutions and organizations, along with the participation of distinguished academic and cultural bodies from Greece and abroad.

The highest institutional support of the initiative, which is under the auspices of H.E. the President of the Hellenic Republic Mr. Constantine An. Tassoulas, to whom we extend our warmest thanks for his exceptional and honorable endorsement; the inclusion of the program in the Strategic Plan of the General Secretariat for Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2024–2027), and the support of the Rectorate, the University Council, and personally the Rector of the University of Ioannina, Professor Anna Batistatou, underscores the significance, international reach, and lasting contribution of this institution.

Faithful to its founding principles, the International Summer University “Greek Language, Culture, and Media” continues to be offered free of charge, ensuring open access to knowledge and to the creative exploration of topics related to the Greek language, culture, and diaspora media. Our aim is to support students, educators, journalists, researchers, and members of the Greek diaspora, contributing to the strengthening of Greek-language education and the expansion of dialogue between Greece and its global communities.

The promotion of the program through Hellenic Public Radio and Television, Hellenic Parliament Television, and major diaspora print and broadcast media, the participation of distinguished figures from the academic, journalistic, and cultural spheres, and the support of the institutions involved constitute a guarantee of a high-level event of international resonance.

With full awareness of the responsibility carried by this institution, and with steadfast commitment to the principles of extroversion, academic excellence, and international cooperation, we prepare for yet another dynamic presence, this time within the Greek community of Australia.

Our journey continues!
With sails wide open, with dedication to our mission, and with deep respect for the Greek language, which remains our constant compass.
We look forward to meeting you in Sydney!