A cry of anguish from the Greek community of Munich for the schools

Greek expatriates in Germany—and particularly in Munich—are in a state of uncertainty and disappointment, as the housing issue plaguing the Greek-language schools in the area remains unresolved. Since July 2023, the “Aristotelis” 4th Elementary School”, the 1st Junior High School of Munich and the Greek Language Courses are at an impasse due to the lack of a suitable building to house them.

In a letter to the Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and other relevant organizations, parents and guardians, as well as associations and organizations of the Greek diaspora, express their deep concern and indignation over the delay in finding a solution. As they report, the latest update from the Consul General of Greece in Munich, Mr. Kodella, and the Deputy Education Coordinator, Mr. Athanasiou, mentioned the possibility of housing the schools in buildings in the northern part of Munich. However, no official decision or action has been announced so far.

The Requests

Greek expatriates are demanding immediate action from the Greek government, with their main demands being:

1. Long-term lease agreement for a new building in the northern part of Munich, which will house the 4th Elementary School and the 1st Middle School.

2. Keeping all schools open, without any mergers or suspensions.

3. Ensuring the smooth operation of Greek-language schools, ensuring children's right to education.

The Importance of Greek-Language Schools

The Greek community emphasizes that these schools are at the heart of Greek identity in Munich. Through language, culture, and traditions, the schools nurture a sense of Greek identity in the hearts of the children. Losing them would be a serious blow to the Greek community in the area.

The lack of official information and the inaction in resolving the problem have caused outrage among the Greek diaspora, who are calling for immediate action. As emphasized in their letter, «time is running out» and the situation cannot continue without immediate solutions.

The Greek government is called upon to take action to ensure the future of Greek-language schools in Munich and, by extension, the educational and cultural identity of the Greek diaspora in Germany. Promises must be turned into action, as the Greek community in Munich deserves the support it is entitled to.