FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE – The Akrotiri Environmental Education Centre (AEEC) has seen a surge in summer attendance, with more than 400 students visiting during a five-week program following major upgrades to the facility.
The centre, led by Dr. Thomas Hadjikyriakou and educator Georgia Theodorou, introduced new interactive smartboards, upgraded computer systems, and high-powered telescopes aimed at enhancing its environmental programming for students aged 5 to 12.
Ten groups totaling 228 participants have already taken part in the two-hour visits, with eight more groups scheduled before the initiative wraps up in early August.
Theodorou said the revamped program offers “a unique and immersive experience,” including films on the ecological value of the Akrotiri Peninsula, hands-on telescope sessions at the Salt Lake, and interactive games using QR codes to guide self-paced learning.
Dr. Hadjikyriakou said the centre’s upgrades are the first major improvements since opening over a decade ago. “We’ve upgraded and updated our equipment to enhance the programmes we offer,” he said.
The AEEC programme also includes outdoor play and storytelling focused on the region’s biodiversity, including turtle nesting beaches and wetland habitats.