The remote island of Pserimos experienced a day filled with symbolism and optimism as the traditional blessing ceremony marking the beginning of the new school year was held at the island’s primary school.
The ceremony was attended by New Democracy MP for the Dodecanese and former Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Giannis Pappas.
This year, four pupils are attending the primary school, two children are enrolled in kindergarten and another two are attending pre-kindergarten. Eight young voices are therefore filling the school of Pserimos, offering a powerful message of hope for the future of the small border island.
The development is particularly significant considering that the school reopened just three years ago with only two kindergarten pupils. The gradual increase in the number of children demonstrates that when the necessary conditions are created, families can remain on the island, find employment and raise their children in their own community.
According to the relevant statement, Giannis Pappas contributed to efforts to reopen the school and improve residents’ daily lives during his term as Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy.
Another important measure was the establishment of the subsidised Mastichari–Pserimos–Kalymnos ferry route, including an afternoon return service. The connection allows Pserimos residents employed on Kalymnos to commute daily and return to their families, without being forced to leave their home island.
An operating school and a reliable transport connection are two essential conditions for families to remain on a small and remote island. The presence of the children at the ceremony highlighted that supporting small island communities is not only about infrastructure; above all, it is about people, families and the creation of genuine opportunities for the future.
Speaking during the ceremony, Giannis Pappas said:
“Our children are the future of Pserimos. It is our duty to provide them with every opportunity to grow, learn, progress and pursue their dreams in their homeland.”
The beginning of the school year on Pserimos was more than a traditional school ceremony. It was a day of hope and a powerful reminder that Greece’s remote islands can keep their future alive when the state actively supports families and creates the conditions for young people to live, work and raise their children in their own communities.
