The educational and cultural role of the International Olympic Academy on an international level was recognized by the International Olympic Committee and its President, Dr. Jacques ROGGE in person. This recognition consists a significant distinction, a special honor and a great success concerning the goals and the vision of the International Olympic Academy’s (IOA) new management. 

The Annual Session of the IOC Commission for Culture and Olympic Education was mainly dedicated to the IOA Master’s Program, the new ‘face’ of the Academy, the passion, but most of all, to the vision of the new upgraded role of the Academy in the Olympic Movement. The Session, that ended its works on Friday (19.06.2009), in Lausanne Switzerland, was attended by the IOC President, Dr. Jacques ROGGE, as well as, the IOC Honorary President, Mr. Juan Antonio SAMARANCH.

Dr. ROGGE who personally welcomed the IOA President, Mr. Isidoros KOUVELOS to the Session, with the words: “I welcome my friend, Mr. KOUVELOS”, spoke warmly about the IOA President’s contribution to the Olympic Movement and the new image and aims of the Academy.

The IOC Commission for Culture and Olympic Education-after IOC Vice-President’s, Mr. Lambis Nikolaou, suggestion - decided unanimously, to submit a request to the President, Dr. Jacques ROGGE, concerning a 10 minute speech by Mr. KOUVELOS during the Olympic Congress in Copenhagen the following October. The speech will concern the Academy and the IOC Commission for Culture and Education, and consists a great honor for the President of the International Olympic Academy.   

Provided that this request is approved, this will happen exceptionally for the first time given that in the particular Congress the speakers are only-and by choice-IOC and NOC Members. 

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