Together for Children and Piraeus Bank Establish Two New Inquiry-Based Learning Centers in Primary Schools in Xanthi
Together for Children, with the support of Piraeus Bank, has established two new Inquiry-Based Learning Centers at the 2nd and 13th Primary Schools of Xanthi as part of the “Together in Remote Areas” program. These new initiatives provide an innovative learning environment for the 551 students and their teachers, tailored to the needs of modern education.
This initiative falls under the Equall – For a Society of Equal People program, specifically within the “Equall STEM Labs” initiative by Piraeus Bank. Its goal is to promote equal access to inquiry-based learning and to enhance and expand educational opportunities for teachers and schools in remote areas.
What Are the Inquiry-Based Learning Centers?
Inquiry-Based Learning Centers are pioneering institutions that create new, modern ways of accessing knowledge through experiential learning and interaction. Their aim is to bring students closer to the sciences and modern technologies while fostering digital literacy, creativity, and critical thinking. These centers are designed to provide a welcoming, modern, and functional educational environment that encourages creativity, collaboration, and teamwork.
Through innovative activities, these centers give children the opportunity to enjoy the learning process, develop life skills, build self-confidence, and discover their personal talents, opening new horizons for their future.
How Do They Benefit Schools and Students?
The operation of the Inquiry-Based Learning Centers strengthens schools by providing them with tools and resources that enable them to participate in national and international competitions and develop outreach activities. Additionally, they foster a network of collaboration among schools, facilitating the exchange of best practices and reinforcing the role of educators.
The selection of materials for these centers was made in close collaboration with school teachers to ensure that the equipment meets the needs and goals of each educational community. The two centers are equipped with interactive learning systems, books, and educational aids that support and encourage creative and experiential learning, with an emphasis on sciences such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and renewable energy sources. Additionally, they include robotics kits and other tools that introduce students to STEM methodologies (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), combining theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Teacher Training and Innovation
In collaboration with 100mentors, Piraeus Bank has also designed the supplementary “Train the Trainer” program, aimed at training primary school teachers to maximize the benefits of the Inquiry-Based Learning Centers. The training program focuses on utilizing the provided equipment and integrating Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in a way that aligns with modern educational approaches.
This marks the third and fourth Inquiry-Based Learning Centers established by Together for Children with the support of Piraeus Bank, following the successful launch of the first center at the 10th Primary School of Komotini in January 2023 and the second at the 14th Primary School of Xanthi in January 2024.
Official Opening Ceremony
At the inauguration event of the Inquiry-Based Learning Center at the 13th Primary School of Xanthi, the blessing ceremony was conducted by His Eminence Metropolitan Panteleimon of Xanthi & Peritheorio, while at the 2nd Primary School of Xanthi, it was performed by Archpriest Father Konstantinos Magginas. Representatives from local government and the educational community attended the inauguration of both centers, including the Mayor of Xanthi, Mr. Stratos Kondos, the Deputy Mayor for Education, Ms. Eleni Giannarou, the Deputy Director of the Regional Directorate of Education for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Ms. Marigoula Kosmidou, and the Director of Primary Education in Xanthi, Ms. Evi Stylianidou. Also present were representatives of the Parents and Guardians Association of each school, executives from Piraeus Bank, and members of Together for Children.
Statements from Key Stakeholders
During the inauguration ceremony, pediatrician and Vice President of Together for Children, Mr. Ioannis Papadatos, stated:
“The creation of Inquiry-Based Learning Centers is a significant step toward equal access for children to modern sciences and experiential learning. Through innovation and with the support of the educational community, children gain the skills they need for the future. At Together for Children, with the essential support of Piraeus Bank, we are working to create opportunities that empower schools and provide children with the prospects to achieve their dreams.”
Piraeus Bank Chairman, Mr. Giorgos Chatzinikolaou, also emphasized:
“The Inquiry-Based Learning Center offers children and their teachers a modern learning experience. In today’s digital world, advanced educational tools facilitate skill development and broaden students’ learning horizons and choices. Every child in the country should be able to benefit from these opportunities without obstacles or discrimination. This philosophy aligns with the Equall – For a Society of Equal People program, which Piraeus Bank has been implementing for the past few years to contribute to a society of equal opportunities for all.”
Mr. Georgios Kourakos, Director of the 2nd Primary School of Xanthi, expressed his gratitude:
“I would like to sincerely thank Together for Children and Piraeus Bank for their invaluable donation, which reflects their commitment to supporting our educational community. Their assistance goes beyond providing materials—it embodies a deep commitment to a continuous effort to improve the future of our children. Through inquiry-based learning, our students develop the ability to think critically, seek solutions, and collaborate with others—skills that are crucial for their adult lives.”
Similarly, Mr. Georgios Xanthopoulos, Director of the 13th Primary School of Xanthi, remarked:
“As the Director of the 13th Primary School of Xanthi, on behalf of our entire student and educational community, I express my heartfelt thanks to Together for Children and Piraeus Bank for their generous support, which has enabled us to establish our Inquiry-Based Learning Center. This ‘gem’ holds special significance for our school as it promotes collaborative and experiential learning, fosters creative and critical thinking, and encourages students to actively engage in the learning process.”
