A total of 5,200 students visited the Akrotiri Environmental Education Center (KPEΑ) during the past school year, participating in specialized environmental education programs designed for elementary and secondary school students.

According to an announcement by the BB, in collaboration with the Unit for Education on the Environment and Sustainable Development (MEPAA) of the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Youth, the Center has hosted, since September 2025, 160 school visits from all districts of Cyprus.

The Center’s Director, Dr. Thomas Hatzikyriakou, described the year as particularly productive, expressing his satisfaction with the high level of school participation and noting that the educational programs covered a wide range of environmental topics, giving students and teachers the opportunity to learn about ecology and culture through hands-on experiences in the natural environment.

“Each visit begins with a fascinating narrative about the formation of the Akrotiri Peninsula, highlighting the importance of the sea turtle nesting beaches and the region’s precious wetlands,” she added.

The students, he continued, explored the exhibition spaces through an interactive game using QR codes, watched an educational film about the ecological value of the peninsula, observed birds at the salt marsh with telescopes, and participated in activities in the Center’s outdoor area.

MEPAA educator Koula Michael also noted that at the KPEΑ, students aged five to eighteen, their teachers, as well as university groups, have the opportunity to explore and interact with the natural environment of the Akrotiri Peninsula through a variety of activities, thereby developing a deeper understanding of the world around them.

According to the announcement, among the most popular programs for preschool and elementary school students was “Magic – Nature – Senses,” while for secondary school students, the programs “Basket Weaving in the Village of Akrotiri,” “The Protected Wetlands of the Akrotiri Peninsula and Their Importance,” “Reducing the Ecological Footprint,” and “The Operation of the Akrotiri Environmental Education Center.”

It is noted that those interested can find information about the educational programs and the application process on the MEPAA website (https://mepaa.moec.gov.cy/index.php/el/), while to book visits and guided tours, they can contact the Center by phone at 25 826562 or by email at [email protected].