The 2nd Student Environmental Conference of the National Student Network, titled "Constantinople – Thessaloniki, an Educational Partnership – Cities of the City, Greeks of the Ecumene," recently took place in Constantinople from March 26 to March 30, 2025. This event gathered students and educators from various schools, including the 19th Primary School of Katerini and the 5th Primary School of Drama, to engage in cultural exchange and collaboration.
Two educators from the 19th Primary School of Katerini, Ms. Thoumi Margarita and Ms. Maria Mpachlitzanaki, led their students to the conference, which was hosted at the historic Zografio Lyceum. The school has been part of the National Student Network since last year and is currently implementing a program titled "A Historical Walk to the Ancient Theater of Dion. Guest Students are Welcomed." Under the guidance of Ms. Margarita, the ST2 class worked on this project, which involved researching the history and evolution of the theater.
Throughout their studies, the students delved into various aspects of theater, seeking information from multiple sources. They developed critical thinking skills, learned to express their opinions, and supported their arguments with evidence. Additionally, they acquired skills in both oral and written communication to present their findings effectively. This experiential learning approach allowed them to understand the importance of preserving cultural heritage, aiming to inspire their peers to become ambassadors of their local history.
The participation of the 19th Primary School was further enriched by educational visits to significant cultural and religious landmarks in Constantinople, providing students with a broader context for their learning. The school's efforts were recognized, with heartfelt appreciation directed towards Ms. Thoumi Margarita for her commitment to guiding the students through this demanding and multifaceted historical program. The initiative, which leverages technology, aims to share students' work with various expatriate schools around the world, showcasing their role as ambassadors of their heritage.
Meanwhile, the 5th Primary School of Drama also made significant contributions to the conference. This year, the school continued its collaboration with the Zografio Lyceum by creating artistic works that reflect the history and culture of both Greece and the expatriate community. Students from the 5th Primary School composed and painted pieces intended for their peers at the Zografio Lyceum, fostering communication bridges between schools in Greece and abroad.
As the first school in the Prefecture to join the National Network of School Partnerships, the 5th Primary School of Drama has actively participated in the Student Conference for the second consecutive year. This year's conference was held at the Zografio Lyceum, graciously hosted by its director, Mr. Ioannis Demirtzoglou. Students from the D' grade and the ST2 classes, under the guidance of their teachers, engaged in various creative projects. They created a mosaic featuring the flag of Constantine Palaiologos, composed a poem dedicated to their three beloved cities—Drama, Thessaloniki, and Constantinople—and painted a representation of the last Metropolitan of Constantinople, Saint Chrysostom.
These artistic endeavors were part of a broader educational initiative that included lessons in history, visual arts, and skills workshops. The students researched historical events, UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Byzantine culture, and the Orthodox Church's contributions to their community's history. Their three works were displayed at the creative exhibition during the Student Conference, earning admiration and praise from the educational community.
The 5th Primary School of Drama is dedicated to encouraging its students and teachers to participate in innovative actions, initiatives, and educational programs. These efforts aim to open pathways of knowledge, cultural exchange, and collaborative learning experiences, fostering creativity and expression among students.
As the conference concluded, both schools celebrated their achievements and the connections they forged with their counterparts in Constantinople. The collaborative spirit of the event highlighted the importance of educational partnerships in nurturing cultural understanding and appreciation among the next generation.
In a world where cultural heritage faces numerous challenges, initiatives like the National Student Network's conference serve as vital platforms for young minds to engage, learn, and advocate for the preservation of their history and identity. Through their participation, students not only gain knowledge but also develop a sense of responsibility towards their cultural legacy, ensuring that it continues to thrive for future generations.
