The Center for the Study of Hellenic Language and Culture (HeLaS) of the DIKEPPEE “Stavros Niarchos” of the University of Ioannina celebrates International Greek Language Day, which has been established by the Greek State and endorsed by UNESCO, recognizing the timeless contribution of the Greek language to world culture.

As part of the celebration, KE.DE.G.PO. is organizing an event that includes, among other activities:

• Creative Writing Competition for Junior High School Students

📅 📅 Date: Monday, February 9, 2026
🕘 Event Duration: 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
📍 Venue: “Stavros Niarchos” DI.KE.P.P.E.E. facilities, University of Ioannina

The competition will be open to the first 10 Junior High Schools of the Prefecture of Ioannina that submit an application to participate.

Each school will compete with one (1) team ((5–8 students), formed by the school itself.

Students will compete creative writingon a topic related to the Greek language..

On the day of the competition, there will be a presentation on the basic principles and techniques of creative writing by Mr. Theodoros Koukias, an award-winning author of young adult literature, to help students become familiar with the process. Afterwards, they will receive an envelope containing the guidelines and necessary materials, and they will have ninety minutes (1.5 hours) to create their text.

The texts will be evaluated by a three-member committee, and at the end of the event, awards will be presented to the participating schools..

The detailed program of the event, including all activities, will be sent to all participating schools.

The aim of this initiative is to offer students the opportunity to express themselves creatively, discover the power of language, and celebrate the beauty and timelessness of the Greek language.

📩 Registration deadline : Friday December 12, 2025..

The application form (attached) should be sent to: langcntr@uoi.gr

We warmly invite you to participate and celebrate together the Greek language—the language that unites past, present, and future through the creative expression of our students!