In 2026 we launched our activities by organizing a multifaceted tribute to World Greek Language Day, entitled “The Greek Language: An Endless Ecumenical Journey”, commemorating the anniversary of its international recognition by UNESCO. The event, held on February 9th, opened with remarks by Honorary President Ms. Margarita Larriera and Director Ms. Soraya Ochoviet. This was followed by an online participation from various distinguished academics and internationally renowned Hellenists, who offered specific insights into the value of the Greek language and its enduring role as a cornerstone of culture and education throughout the Western world.
The speakers were; Mr. Christos Clairis from the Sorbonne University René Descartes-Paris V, Mr. Robin Lane Fox – Emeritus Fellow of New College Oxford, Mr. Moschos Morfakidis-Fylactos from the University of Granada, Mr. Sebastián D. Salinas Gaete from the University of Chile, Ms. Christina Tsardikou President of the Greek Organization “Nostos” of Argentina, Mr. Dimitris Filippis from the Hellenic Open University, Vice Admiral (Ret.) Konstantinos Katagas, Mr. George Anomeritis – Vice President of the “Maria Tsakos” Public Benefit Foundation of Chios and Mr. Michalis Xynos – Director of the Tsakos Enhanced Education Nautical School “TEENS”.
The event featured in-person presentations by Ms. Gabriela Verde – Chair of the Uruguayan National Commission for UNESCO and Deputy Minister of Education and Culture of Uruguay, the Greek Ambassador to Uruguay Mr. Stavros Spyridakis and the Vice President of the Greek Community of Uruguay Mr. Pavlos Avgoustis. Our students and friends filled the main hall, whilst audiences from around the world joined the event online. We were particularly honoured by the presence of the Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to Uruguay, Mr. Petros Mavromichalis.
Throughout the month of February, our premises buzzed with the vibrant energy of summer activities, offering rich and varied cultural experiences, open to all. From engaging workshops in philosophy and literature, to enthusiastic sessions of Greek dancing, the exploration of gastronomic traditions and rehearsals of the band “Rebétika Montevideo” – there was something for everyone to savour and enjoy.
During the same month, language teachers participated in an in-depth seminar on our new teaching methodology, which we are gradually introducing beginning this year. The textbook that will be used now for the Foundation’s Greek language courses is “CLICK in Greek” published by the Centre for the Greek Language based on a communicative approach to language teaching. As some instructors had not yet worked with these textbooks, Ms. Katerina Kalligiannaki held presentations and preparatory meetings, aimed at fostering shared learning and professional enrichment.
