An educational and informative trip to the European Parliament was made by students from the Greek Region at the invitation of the MEP and head of the Parliamentary Group of PASOK in the European Parliament, Nikos Papandreou.

The students came from Granitsa High School of the Municipality of Agrafon, the 1st EPAL of Myrina Limnos and the 3rd Experimental GE.L of Komotini.

The aim of the visit was to give the students and their accompanying teachers the possibility of a first contact with the institutions of the European Union, to get to know up close some key aspects of their operation, as well as to realize how the decisions made in a European level affect their daily life.
As part of their visit, together with Mr. Papandreou, they also visited the building of the European Commission. There they met with the Greek Vice-President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, who informed them about the project, the role, as well as the responsibilities of the EU and his own portfolio.

The students also actively participated with questions and statements and in a TV show organized, on the initiative of the PASOK MEP, by the Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament, on the theme “The future of Europe”. Cypriot MEP Eleni Stavrou participated in the show and was moderated by journalists Maria Smilidou and Takis Sarantis.

During the show, topics were discussed that reflect some of the main challenges facing Europe and concern young people such as: Can the European Union improve education systems to better prepare young people for the challenges of the future? What measures should be taken at European level to tackle climate change and ensure sustainability. How the EU can promote economic growth and create jobs for young people. How can the EU promote digital education, innovation and digital security and finally if there are ways to solve the Demographic problem which especially in Greece in recent years seems to have a very negative development.

The students also went on a cultural tour of important monuments in the city of Brussels.

After the end of the visit, Mr. Papandreou said: “I am glad that through this visit students from Agrafa, Myrina and Komotini were given the opportunity to visit and get to know the functioning of the European Institutions up close. It was extremely encouraging to discuss with them and hear their views on the challenges and the future of Europe. Their suggestions and concerns reflect the dynamism of the new generation and their passion for the issues affecting our society. We highlighted common issues of concern to citizens, such as climate change, education, economic development and demographics. Their views consist of a variety of ideas and proposals that deserve to be taken into account in shaping political decisions about the future of Europe. The participation of young people in shaping our future is vital. Their active participation in the public sphere highlights the potential and democratic nature of the European Union.”

Lena Flitzani