Greece
participants
The purpose of this activity was to actively engage the entire academic community of the University of Ioannina (professors, students, student associations, volunteers, international students, etc.) in the continuation of the journey of the Olympic Flame towards Paris. Naturally, such an event’s purpose is accompanied by collective sub-goals such as:
- Showcasing the cultural significance of this event.
- Creating unique memories through participation in organising a high-visibility and large-scale event.
- Promoting the highest ideals of the Olympic Games and universal values, far beyond any athletic performance or promotion. These values include fair play, peace, inclusion, equality, the significance of inspiring and being inspired.
Objectives
- To inform international and Greek students about the history and origins of the Olympics and the values symbolised by the Olympic Flame.
- To understand how the Olympics and the Olympic movement have influenced Greek and global culture, highlighting the connection between past and present.
- To provide an opportunity for students and volunteers to engage in organising a significant cultural event of international impact, creating lasting memories.
- To promote volunteering as an essential part of event organisation and success.
- To encourage networking and collaboration among participants, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose through this unique experience.
The Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony at the University of Ioannina was organised as part of the celebrations for the university's 60th anniversary, coinciding with the 2024 Olympic Torch Relay. ESN Ioannina, in collaboration with the University’s International and Public Relations Office, coordinated the event, bringing together local and international students, academic staff, and volunteers.
The event featured several key elements, including the artistic design of the Olympic rings, flag-raising ceremonies for Greece, France, and the Olympic Games, and a symbolic torch relay across the university campus. Volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event by managing logistics, coordinating the audience, and distributing memorabilia. Activities such as face painting for children and cultural performances made the event more interactive. Additionally, the ceremony adhered strictly to the guidelines provided by the Hellenic Olympic Committee and the organisers of the Paris 2024 Torch Relay campaign, reflecting the high standards and dedication of all involved.
The activity's success was evident in the positive feedback from participants and organisers alike. It highlighted the event's role in fostering collaboration, promoting Olympic values, and leaving a lasting impression on everyone who took part. This unique experience combined cultural celebration with thorough organisation, creating unforgettable memories for the entire community.
