The university hosted the ceremony at University House to honour Hajek, Professor of Italian and European Studies and current Acting Director of the School of Languages and Linguistics. 

Hajek is a prominent figure in the academic and cultural scene, with a successful career full of significant contributions in the field of language teaching and the promotion of linguistic and cultural diversity.

With more than 30 years of experience as an academic at The University of Melbourne, Professor Hajek has demonstrated tireless commitment to his work, seeking to promote the Italian language and multiculturalism to the wider community. 

His distinguished career has been marked by numerous awards, honours and titles, such as his fellowship status given to him by the Australian Academy of Humanities.

His work has also been recognised with a Medal for Outstanding Service in Language Teaching by the Australian Federation of Modern Language Teachers.

As pointed out by Lesley Stirling, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at The University of Melbourne, John Hajek’s contribution to academic research has been equally impressive, with a wide range of research projects ranging from studies on the way children acquire multiple languages to the exploration of the Italian language and culture in Australia.

Hanna Pappalardo, the Consul General of Italy in Melbourne, said when Professor Hajek was the director of the Multiculturalism and Intercultural Communication research, he was invaluable in shedding light on the state of language teaching in schools and the importance of keeping different languages and cultures alive.

The long series of awards for his commitment and contribution culminated in Hajek being honoured with the title of Cavaliere of the Order of the Star of Italy on February 27. The evening was opened by faculty member Alfonso Martinez Esposito, who kicked off the ceremony with words of welcome before handing the microphone over to the Consul General Pappalardo.

“There are many memories I cherish from my initial arrival to Melbourne,” recalled Pappalardo.

“Among them is the day I met John. This memory takes me back to October, 2022, when in preparation for the 22nd edition of the Settimana della Lingua Italiana nel Mondo, I was looking for someone to take stock of the situation regarding the teaching of Italian in Victoria.

“John Hajek’s name came up almost immediately because of his outstanding reputation and unparalleled passion for his profession.

“I, in agreement with His Excellency the Ambassador of Italy in Canberra, proposed John Hajek for the rank of Cavaliere of the Order of the Star of Italy.

“This is the second civil honour of the Italian State and is conferred by the President of the Italian Republic on the proposal of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.”

When it was Hajek’s turn to speak, he was quick to use humour to tone down a highly formal occasion.

“It’s amazing to me to think that someone like me, with a Slavic mother, Croatian father and who studied French and Indonesian in high school has received recognition from Italy for his contribution to the Italian language in Australia,” he said.

During his speech, the professor acknowledged the fundamental role of his academic training and study experiences in Italy in shaping his career and his love for the Italian language and culture.

He thanked his colleagues for their support and collaboration over the years, emphasising that the honour received was a recognition for the entire academic and linguistic community. 

After the presentation of the parchment, the medal and the customary photos, the evening continued with refreshments and a lively toast to Professor John Hajek, now Cavaliere of the Order of the Star of Italy.