From 17 to 21 October 2025, the students of the Halki Junior and Senior High School “Socrates Fanourakis” visited Kos as part of an educational programme organised and fully supported by the Fanourakis Foundation.
The visit formed part of the Foundation’s ongoing educational and cultural initiative, “Fanourakeia”, and was conducted with the approval of the Secondary Education Directorate of the Dodecanese. The programme aimed to enrich students’ learning experiences beyond the classroom, combining education, culture, environmental awareness, and personal development.
During their stay, students explored some of Kos’ most important landmarks and attractions. They toured Kos Town, visited the iconic Plane Tree of Hippocrates, and discovered the island’s rich natural heritage at the botanical and zoological park in Zia.
A particularly meaningful activity took place at Caravia Beach Hotel & Bungalows in Marmari, where students participated in a tree-planting initiative, adding new trees to the hotel’s “Garden of Hippocrates.” The activity highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship and left a lasting contribution to the island’s landscape.
Throughout the visit, the students and their accompanying teachers were accommodated at Caravia Beach Hotel & Bungalows, which served as their base for learning, exploration, and collaboration.
One of the most inspiring moments of the visit was the presentation of a book conceived, written, and published entirely by the students themselves.
The story explores what happens when a child loses their mobile phone and their classmates decide to switch off their own devices and spend a day together in a “Mobile-Free Halki.” The project reflects themes of friendship, connection, digital wellbeing, and the value of real-life interaction.
The presentation took place in the “Socrates Fanourakis” Conference Hall at Caravia Beach Hotel & Bungalows and was attended by the full Board of Directors of the Fanourakis Foundation.
As a gesture of gratitude, the students and teachers dedicated the book to the Fanourakis Foundation, recognising its hospitality and long-standing commitment to supporting young people through educational and community initiatives.
Among its many contributions, the Foundation awards an annual scholarship for higher education studies, helping students pursue their academic ambitions and build brighter futures.
At Caravia Beach Hotel & Bungalows, we are proud to host initiatives that connect education, culture, sustainability, and community engagement. Welcoming the students of Halki was a privilege and a reminder of the importance of creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and be inspired.
We thank the Fanourakis Foundation, the students, and their teachers for allowing us to be part of this meaningful educational journey.
