The newly established Greek school of the Greek community in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, began operating this year, marking a significant step in efforts to preserve Greek language and cultural identity in the country. The school is staffed by educator Nikos Kommatás, who brings decades of teaching experience in Greece and Africa and whose mission extends beyond language instruction, according to protothema.gr
The initiative follows years of attempts to strengthen Greek education among Tanzanian Greeks. As the Greek Ministry of Education has not seconded teachers to Tanzania since 1980, the local community decided to establish the school independently, inviting Kommatás to lead the effort from the ground up.
According to Dimitris Mantheakis, vice president of the Greek Community of Tanzania and chairman of the school’s board, the aim is to maintain strong ties with Greece and ensure that Greek identity and tradition endure across generations. The teacher’s salary is fully covered by the community.
The school currently serves 32 students aged 4 to 87, including members of the Greek diaspora and individuals connected to Greece through family or professional ties. Students are divided into nine groups based on age and learning needs. Lessons combine language, history, literature and music, often using interactive digital material created by the teacher.
Classes are held weekly, with additional online lessons for children in Arusha. Plans are also underway to mark national celebrations such as March 25 with community events featuring the Greek flag and national anthem.
The Greek community in Tanzania numbers around 150–160 people, with Dar es Salaam hosting the largest concentration. Community leadership continues to support education, healthcare and cultural activities, viewing the school as a bridge between East Africa and Greece and a key pillar in sustaining Hellenic heritage abroad.
Source: protothema.gr
