A dynamic presence by the IEEE Student Branch UOI – Arta, in collaboration with the Epirus XR Center and the HCI Lab, featuring VR and AR applications, aerial drone footage, and initiatives to connect students with the city.

Arta, October 19, 2026

With a dynamic presence, innovative technological applications, and active participation in the local community, the IEEE Student Branch at the University of Ioannina – Arta, in collaboration with the Epirus XR Center and the Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCI Lab) of the Department of Informatics and Telecommunications at the University of Ioannina, participated in the 10th anniversary Arta Half Marathon “The Bridge Run,” held on October 17 and 18, 2026.

As part of the event, in collaboration with the Municipality of Arta, an interactive technology booth was set up, offering people of all ages the opportunity to learn about modern applications and discover how innovation is connected to sports, education, and everyday life.

When Sports Meets Technology
Visitors to the booth had the opportunity to try out Virtual Reality (VR) applications with sports content, enjoying interactive experiences that combine movement, entertainment, and technology.

At the same time, Augmented Reality (AR) applications were showcased, highlighting the capabilities of modern digital technologies and offering a different way to interact with the real and digital worlds.

The use of drones drew particular interest, with aerial footage of the races being projected, offering visitors a unique perspective on the event and highlighting the beauty of Arta and its historic landscape.

This initiative highlighted how research, technology, and creativity can move beyond university laboratories and become part of important public events in the local community.

An Invitation for Freshmen to Get to Know Arta
A key part of the initiative was the open invitation from the IEEE Student Branch UOI – Arta to first-year students and other students in the Department of Informatics and Telecommunications to participate in the 5-kilometer walking tour.

The initiative aimed to offer new students a unique opportunity to get to know Arta, its historical sites, attractions, and the distinctive character of the city that will be their home during their studies.

At the same time, it provided an opportunity for socializing, building bonds among students, and strengthening the relationship between the university community and the local community.
The University of Ioannina: An Active Part of the City
Participation in the “Bridge Run” is part of the ongoing effort by the IEEE Student Branch UOI – Arta, the Epirus XR Center, and the HCI Lab to foster outreach, disseminate knowledge, and create opportunities for meaningful engagement between citizens and science and technology.

Through initiatives that combine academic knowledge, volunteerism, and social engagement, the active role that students and the university community can play in the cultural, social, and technological life of Arta is highlighted.

Warm thanks are extended to the Municipality of Arta, the organizers, the volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the successful realization of the 10th “Bridge Run,” as well as to the citizens and students who visited the booth and participated in the activities.

Technology becomes even more valuable when it is accessible to everyone. With this vision, the IEEE Student Branch UOI – Arta, the Epirus XR Center, and the HCI Lab continue to bring innovation closer to society, contributing to the creation of an Arta that connects knowledge, sports, culture, and the younger generation.