Education is never a matter of teaching one objective “truth”; it is a matter of assisting people arrive at their own personal constructions of reality.
The Living the English Language programme aims to raise awareness among young people about the significance of education in establishing a strong foundation for their lives, the employment prospects it creates, as well as the opportunity for a smoother integration process. The programme was initiated in December 2022, funded until December 2024, and will support approximately 120 young individuals between the ages of 16 and 25 through daily classes per level and additional learning support during Library Time.
The project is delivered by the Velos Youth team, with the involvement of Doris Dimopoulos, a Greek/Canadian English educator who serves as the project leader. Doris designs and delivers direct lessons for young people as part of Velos Youth’s comprehensive services. This includes an 80-hour English course provided within the project, followed by a certificate of attendance upon completion. Furthermore, participants receive preparation and training for official and internationally recognized language certifications, such as those offered by the University of Michigan (USA). Additionally, a monthly day-out is organized to allow practice of learned concepts in real-life situations and themes covered in the classroom.
Our objective is to support young individuals in pursuing further educational and training opportunities, securing jobs that utilize English as a lingua franca, and enhancing their self-esteem and self-worth, thereby fostering a greater sense of belonging in their chosen country.