ATHENS, GREECE - JUNE 4, 2025
“A part of me still lies in Prague,” shared one participant at the Alumni Meetup in Greece — a touching reflection on how deeply a single semester abroad can shape a lifetime.
The Czech National Agency for International Education and Research (DZS) continues to nurture the strong bonds between international alumni and Czechia through its series of meetups around the world. On June 4, 2025, the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Athens together with DZS, through the Czechia Alumni programme, hosted its first and vibrant gathering in Greece, bringing together former international students who studied in Czechia, providing an opportunity to reconnect, reminisce, and look forward to new collaborations.
The esteemed Czech Ambassador, Ivo Šilhavý, welcomed the guests and highlighted the importance of this event for fostering long-term academic and cultural ties between Czechia and Greece. “Meetings like this are essential for revitalising study contacts, creating new personal and professional ties, and building bridges between alumni, prospective students, Czech companies, and compatriots,” the Ambassador noted. “It should be an opportunity to make effective use of Czech-Greek ties so that they have a practical impact in the future for the alumni and for the mutual relations between our two countries.”
Attendees from various regions of Greece came together to reflect on how their Czech education shaped their personal and professional paths. Among them were also Czech students currently studying in Greece and Greek students interested in learning more about study opportunities in Czechia. The event offered a dynamic space for networking and exploring new ways for alumni to stay connected with Czech institutions and with one another.
Besides info stands about Study in Czechia initiative and Czechia Alumni programme, attendees could learn more about the activities of the Czech Association Greece, the local Czech Compatriot Society in Athens and Hellenic-Czech Chamber of Greece. Charles University and the Erasmus Student Network CZ (ESN CZ) representatives were also present, sharing useful tips and info for anyone curious about studying in Czechia. Following the example of previous alumni meetups in countries like Moldova and Thailand, the gathering in Greece celebrated shared academic paths and cross-cultural connections that reach beyond national borders.
The evening unfolded in a warm and easygoing atmosphere. As part of the programme, guests could also explore the Czech Image exhibition, which was an opportunity to reflect on how Czechs are perceived, their identity and achievements. For lighter moments, a photo booth was available for attendees to capture fun memories. The networking was complemented by a taste of Czech tradition — grilled Czech-style sausages (špekáčky) and typical Czech refreshments.
One of the participants reminisced about her Erasmus experience in Czechia: "A part of me still lies in Prague, where that formative and transformative semester shaped who I am today." Another alumnus, for whom Czechia was the first time living abroad, shared: "It helped me gain a lot, both academically and as an individual." He also praised his university and student life: "Great university with long history, very good and active International Students Club. I must say - if not the best, one of the best semesters of my undergraduate studies." 
Events like this serve as a reminder of the global community that Czechia has cultivated through decades of welcoming international students. Whether through academic cooperation, cultural exchange, or simply maintaining friendships, the Czechia Alumni network remains a strong and growing force.
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You will find all the Meetup photos on our Facebook page.