An important step towards the digital transformation of education in Epirus was taken on Thursday, March 5, 2026, with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the HCILAB – Epirus XR Center of the University of Ioannina and the Regional Directorate of Primary and Secondary Education of Epirus (PEDIEK).

The Protocol was signed by Professor Alexander Tzallas, Dean of the School of Informatics and Telecommunications at the University of Ioannina, Director of the HCILAB Laboratory and head of the Epirus XR Center, and by the Director of PEDIEK Epirus, Ms. Marina Besi.

This collaboration lays the foundations for the development of a dynamic ecosystem of innovation in education in Epirus, utilizing Extended Reality (XR – Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality) technologies to create modern, experiential, and interactive learning experiences.

Goal:

The education of the future in Epirus

The collaboration aims to:
integrate XR technologies into primary and secondary education develop the digital skills of students and teachers
the implementation of innovative pedagogical practices the creation of model educational activities and pilot programs in schools in the region the formation of a regional hub for educational and technological innovation

At the same time, the collaboration includes teacher training activities, the development of digital educational material, the organization of scientific events, and the implementation of student activities, such as workshops, competitions, and creative projects utilizing XR technologies.

Education, research, and innovation on a common path
HCILAB – Epirus XR Center, as the research pillar of technological innovation at the University of Ioannina, will provide scientific expertise, XR application development, and technical support for the implementation of the activities.

Similarly, the Regional Directorate of Education of Epirus will contribute to the institutional coordination of schools, the dissemination of actions, and their integration into the educational ecosystem of the region.

This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the development of a modern education model, where technology, research, and pedagogical innovation work together to offer new learning opportunities to students in Epirus.

The signing of the Protocol is an important first step towards the creation of a strong regional ecosystem of XR education and innovation, with prospects for expansion into national and European programs.