Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation gives update on future of language program

·

The Macquarie Greek Studies Foundation held a pivotal ‘Town Hall’-style event at the AHEPA NSW Hall in Rockdale on Monday, December 16, gathering approximately 30 community members for a discussion on the future of Modern Greek studies at Macquarie University.

The event provided a platform for updates, open dialogue, and reflections on the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to support Greek language education

The event featured addresses from key speakers, including Leon Bombotas and Theo Premetis from the Foundation, as well as a significant contribution from the Consul General of Greece in Sydney, Ioannis Mallikourtis.

Much of the evening’s conversation centered on the future of Greek language education, with particular emphasis on fostering the language within homes and supporting early learning initiatives.

Background and Context

In May 2024, Macquarie University confirmed its decision to discontinue the teaching of Modern Greek, along with Italian, Croatian, and Russian, as part of its strategic shift toward a Global Cultural Studies program. This decision marked the culmination of over 12 months of sustained advocacy from the Foundation, which engaged with community leaders, Federal and State Members of Parliament, and university executives, including the Faculty Head and Vice-Chancellor.

Mr Bombotas, in his address, recounted the Foundation’s extensive efforts to advocate for the retention of Modern Greek studies.

He highlighted the proactive steps taken since October 2023, when the Foundation first became aware of the proposed changes. From securing commitments for existing students to complete their studies to lobbying for the continuation of new enrolments, the Foundation’s efforts were wide-ranging and persistent.

“We met face to face with the Dean of the Faculty, Chris Dixon on at least three occasions. It was clear from our first meeting that he was resolved to discontinue the community languages as they do not align with his long term strategy,” Mr Bombotas said.

macquarie-university-modern-greek-program-scaled
The Greek Herald worked alongside the Macquarie University Greek Studies Foundation to launch a petition calling on the university to reconsider its decision to discontinue Greek.

Challenges and Reflections

During his speech, Mr Bombotas outlined the rationale behind Macquarie’s decision and acknowledged the changing landscape of education and language learning, noting how digital tools, Artificial Intelligence, and online learning platforms are reshaping how students engage with languages like Greek.

“We have a demand problem. The success of the program over the years, in creating capable teaching staff, has out-paced the demand for Greek studies at a secondary and tertiary level,” he said.

Despite this, he emphasised that while the formal Modern Greek studies program at Macquarie is ending, the Foundation’s mission to support Greek language, history, and culture remains steadfast.

Looking ahead

The Foundation’s forward-looking strategy focuses on new initiatives that reflect the modern educational landscape.

Mr Bombotas shared plans for a five-year strategic direction to be presented to the community in the coming year. Proposals under consideration include funding higher-degree research, supporting exchange initiatives and summer schools in Greece, and deepening ties with Greek Studies departments at other universities.

“While we lament the end of something good, we are now planning for something better and more attuned to the world we’re living in,” he said.

The event’s open Q&A session offered attendees the chance to voice their concerns, share ideas, and pose questions directly to the Foundation’s leadership.

Discussions reiterated the importance of supporting Greek language education from a young age, with several speakers emphasising the role of families and early learning initiatives in sustaining the language within the community.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greek Basketball League finals to proceed after rival club owners reach agreement

Deputy Sports Minister Yiannis Vroutsis confirmed that the Greek Basketball League finals will go ahead, following a verbal agreement.

Greece and Egypt discuss future of Mount Sinai Monastery amid legal concerns

Greek FM George Gerapetritis met with his Egyptian counterpart to address concerns over the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine.

Over $45,000 raised to make Pontian House accessible for all

A total of $45,476 has been raised by Pontoxeniteas NSW at its Winter Wonderland Gala 2025 to install a platform lift at the Pontian House.

Star Pharmacy Group CEO Peter Piliouras takes on Chemist Warehouse in expansion plan

Peter Piliouras, CEO of Star Pharmacy Group, is aiming to double the group’s chain, taking on industry giant Chemist Warehouse.

Landlord Margarita Constanti Salamakis taken to court as bakery owner fights eviction

Margarita Constanti Salamakis is facing legal action in NSW Supreme Court after issuing an eviction notice to Marrickville bakery Miss Sina.

You May Also Like

Greek police record 2,104 public movement violations

The Hellenic Police (ELAS) recorded a total of 2,104 violations of a government lockdown aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus on Wednesday.

Ange Postecoglou kicks off Celtic success with two pre-season victories

Ange Postecoglou looks to be on the road to riches in Scotland after claiming two victories in his first two games as coach of Celtic FC.

170 kg of marijuana seized by police at Turkey-Greece border

Turkish customs officers seized 177 kilograms (390 pounds) of marijuana in an anti-narcotics operation at the Greek border.