“SafeSchools Alliance”

ATHENS, November 6, 2025—Piraeus Bank and UNICEF announce a new nationwide initiative aimed at preventing school bullying, promoting respect and strengthening the mental health of children in schools across the country.

The collaboration on the "SafeSchools Alliance" programme was formalized on October 29 at a special event, by Piraeus Bank CEO Christos Megalou and UNICEF Representative in Greece Dr. Ghassan Khalil.This initiative is a continuation of the collaboration between the two organizations that began in November 2023, within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between Piraeus Bank and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), with a shared vision of improving the lives of every child in Greece. As part of this collaboration, significant steps have already been taken to create safer living conditions for children, with Piraeus Bank acting as a strategic partner of UNICEF in protecting children from violence. Continuing their joint efforts, the two partners are undertaking new initiatives to ensure that children in Greece are effectively protected and empowered to grow and thrive, free from violence.

Specifically, the "SafeSchools Alliance" programme includes: 

• Development of practical tools for educators, including a comprehensive Bullying Prevention and Student Resilience Handbook with guidelines aligned with the curriculum
• 10 experiential workshops and support materials for parents and caregivers     
• Training 600 teachers and staff in schools across the country in modern, scientifically proven practices for prevention, empathy, and life skills development—such as stress management, communication, conflict resolution, and emotion management.
• Empowering at least 12,000 students in 200 schools within the first 15 months of implementation, through actions that will help them develop emotional resilience, recognize and report bullying, and build positive relationships

• Evaluation through systematic monitoring and communication of results with public presentation to strengthen the "voice" of children and the impact of the initiative

  On the occasion of the renewal of the partnership with UNICEF, the CEO of Piraeus Bank, Mr. Christos Megalou, emphasized: "Piraeus Bank is proud to strengthen its partnership with UNICEF through the "SafeSchools Alliance" program—a joint commitment to prevent school bullying, protect children and promote respect and inclusion in all schools in Greece. Together, we are building a future where every child can feel valued, empowered and protected. This initiative reflects Piraeus Bank's steadfast commitment to contributing meaningfully to creating a positive social impact through programs that promote safety and equality."

  For his part, the UNICEF Representative in Greece, Dr. Ghassan Khalil, said: "Since 2023, our collaboration with Piraeus Bank has been a powerful example of what can be achieved when purpose meets commitment. Together, we embarked on a mission to protect children and the results speak for themselves — demonstrating the impact that investing in children's safety, well-being and future can have. Today, we are proud to announce the renewal of this meaningful partnership. UNICEF expresses its appreciation to Piraeus Bank for its trust, continued support and belief in the power of protecting and empowering children, helping them to reach their full potential."

  Piraeus Bank's partnership with UNICEF and the new initiatives being developed are part of Piraeus Bank's Corporate Responsibility program, "EQUALL – For a Society of Equal People."