The mobility of students and teachers was successfully carried out, within the framework of the approved European program Erasmus+ KA121-SCH, with code 2024-1-EL01-KA121-SCH-000234711 and title "SDG Time Travelers", from May 4th to 9th, 2025, at the School Osnovna šola Destrnik - Trnovska vas,which is located in the Destrnik region of eastern Slovenia, surrounded by a lush rural landscape that fosters a strong connection with nature and supports hands-on sustainability activities. 

A group of fourteen second-year students from the B’ Arsakeio-Tositseio Junior High School of Ekali, along with their teachers—Ms. Athina Gkarmpola and Ms. Athina Xyrafá (English teachers ), and Ms. Aikaterini Marásli (Physics teacher )—took part in the mobility. Over the course of six days, students and teachers from the partner schools participated in a wide range of educational, cultural, and hands-on sustainability activities, all conducted in English. The programme focused on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, while also promoting European identity, mutual understanding, intercultural collaboration, and environmental awareness. 

On Monday, May 5th, 2025, our students enjoyed a special guided tour of the center of Ljubljana, the picturesque capital of Slovenia. The tour had a warm, engaging atmosphere, as it was led by students from Osnovna šola Destrnik – Trnovska vas, who enthusiastically and cheerfully introduced their peers to the city’s main sights. 

To make the tour even more interactive and engaging, our students held a city map and guided the route themselves, pointing out the next stop to their Slovenian peers. This approach made the experience more dynamic and collaborative, with all students actively participating and enjoying the exploration of the city in their own unique way. 

One of the most impressive landmarks we visited was the Dragon Bridge. There, the Slovenian students introduced us to the striking dragon sculptures that adorn the bridge, explaining their symbolic meaning and the connection between the city of Ljubljana, the legend of Saint George, and the mythical dragon. 

Next, we visited Ljubljana Castle, where we enjoyed a unique, theatrical-style guided tour. Taking the funicular to the top, we were rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city. There, our students had the opportunity to experience the castle’s history through a series of “time stations,” where actors dressed in traditional costumes guided us and brought key moments of the city’s past to life—from Roman battles and the legend of Saint George and the dragon to medieval emperors. This interactive experience made history come alive, making it even more exciting and engaging for everyone.

Next, we visited the Postojna Cave, one of Slovenia’s most impressive natural attractions. Postojna Cave is the largest cave system in Central Europe, stretching over 24 kilometers. Our tour began with an exciting train ride deep into the cave, followed by a walking exploration of its spectacular chambers. We were amazed by the stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and the presence of the “human dragon,” a rare amphibian found only in the caves of the region, added a magical touch to the experience. 

Next, we enjoyed a wonderful walk around Lake Bled, famous for its enchanting scenery. The lake, surrounded by forests and mountains, is home to a beautiful island featuring the Church of St. Mary. Visitors can take a traditional wooden boat, called a pletna, to reach the island and enjoy the stunning views. The serene atmosphere of the area creates a sense of calm and tranquility, perfect for relaxing strolls and photography. 

On Tuesday, May 6th, 2025, we visited Osnovna šola Destrnik – Trnovska vas, where the official opening of the programme took place with a warm welcome from the school principal. This was followed by a tour of the school facilities, during which our students showed us around and shared insights into their daily life and activities. The warm hospitality from both students and teachers made the visit especially enjoyable and helped us build strong bonds with our Slovenian friends. 

Three creative activities followed for the students: first, they made friendship bracelets, strengthening cooperation and friendship among them. Next, they took part in activities exploring the similarities and differences between Slovenian and Greek through various words and phrases from both languages. Finally, they prepared the traditional Slovenian dessert “Potica,” learning about its history and cultural significance. 

After the activities at the school, we visited the local mayor, who warmly welcomed us and expressed her pleasure at our visit. The local TV channel was present to cover the meeting and highlight the student exchange. 

On the afternoon of Tuesday, May 6th, 2025, the students visited Ptuj, the oldest town in Slovenia, where they took part in a fun treasure hunt around the city, divided into international teams. Through this game, they had the opportunity to learn more about the history and sights of the area in an interactive and collaborative way. 

.Next, they visited the beautiful Ptuj Castle, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the town and surrounding area. They toured the castle’s rooms, where they saw a collection of traditional musical instruments, part of the region’s cultural heritage. 

At the end, they climbed the tower of Ptuj, where they heard the bell toll and enjoyed the enchanting view of the town and its surrounding landscapes.

The students visited the Kurenti Carnival Museum in Ptuj, Slovenia, where they got to experience the Kurenti tradition firsthand — one of the most distinctive and recognizable elements of Slovenian carnival heritage. Through the museum’s exhibits, they had the opportunity to see authentic costumes, learn about the history and significance of the custom, and understand its role in the local culture.

On Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, the day began with activities at Osnovna šola Destrnik – Trnovska vas, where the students took part in creative and educational workshops until midday.

After lunch at the school, the group set off for a hike in the beautiful Slovenian countryside. During the walk through the lush landscape, the students had the chance to enjoy nature and share cultural moments with their Slovenian friends; in a forest clearing, they all danced the syrtaki together, creating an unforgettable experience full of joy and smiles.

During the hike, they arrived at a traditional old Slovenian house, where they had the chance to see folk art and learn about the local traditions.

Next, they lit fires and baked traditional puff pastry “friendship rolls,” deepening their connection with nature and local culture.

The day ended with a fun game of charades, bringing moments of laughter, teamwork, and a warm sense of camaraderie.

On Thursday, May 8th, 2025, the students began their day with a visit to a pumpkin seed processing factory, where they learned about the production process and sampled local products made from pumpkin seeds.

.Next, they visited a tomato farm and learned about sustainable farming methods.

The experience culminated at the EXPANO Exhibition Pavilion, where participants had the chance to explore the Pomurje region in miniature through interactive applications and virtual reality (VR). There, they enjoyed a virtual hot air balloon ride, taking in the views while learning about the local nature and culture.

In the afternoon, the students walked along the Mura River and then boarded a small boat to reach Pitamo Island.

There, they took part in an educational card game inspired by the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which the students themselves had designed as part of the eTwinning project “SDG Time Travellers.” Through this activity, they creatively explored sustainability topics and collaborated in international teams.

The day ended with visits to the homes of the Slovenian students from Osnovna šola Destrnik - Trnovska vas. There, the Greek students had the unique opportunity to experience firsthand the daily lives of the families hosting them, sharing meals, moments, and smiles in a warm and welcoming environment. This experience offered not only cultural exchange but also genuine connections between the children. The emotions, excitement, and sense of closeness that developed left a lasting impression on everyone, confirming the power of human contact and intercultural friendship.

Another wonderful educational and cultural experience for both students and teachers within the Erasmus+ program! Erasmus+ programs, co-funded by the European Union and under the auspices of the State Scholarships Foundation (IKY), offer an invaluable contribution to Europe’s educational community. Through such initiatives, mutual understanding, respect for diversity, and a shared European identity are nurtured. We eagerly look forward to welcoming our Slovenian friends to our country next school year, continuing this beautiful journey of knowledge and friendship!

We didn’t realize we were making memories; we were just having fun.