Successfully Hosting the SpicE Exchange Program in Cyprus

We are proud to have hosted the Cyprus edition of the SpicE Exchange Program from April 7th to 12th, 2025, right here in Nicosia. Co-organized by our team and the Trakia University the exchange was held at the Old Campus of the University and brought together 48 educators and education professionals from Cyprus, Bulgaria, Greece, and Spain, creating a vibrant international community of practice. As part of the SpicE project, this exchange program offered participants an immersive experience in inclusive STEAM education through collaborative learning, creative exploration, and high-quality professional development.

The week kicked off with the energetic Egg Drop Challenge — a hands-on team-based activity that ignited creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration right from the start. Over the following days, our team at the University of Cyprus facilitated sessions focused on STEAM education, inquiry-based learning, and the SWOT analysis as a reflective practice to evaluate and improve teaching strategies. Participants also explored the RAFT (Role, Audience, Format, Topic) strategy as a creative framework for designing inclusive STEAM lessons that promote active engagement, diverse perspectives, and deeper understanding across learning profiles.

The second half of the program was led by our esteemed partners from Trakia University, who delved into critical topics such as sensory integration, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and the co-design of STEAM projects that truly include all learners — regardless of ability, background, or learning needs.

Participants left the exchange equipped with practical tools, inclusive strategies, and renewed enthusiasm for transforming their classrooms. Cultural activities, such as a guided walking tour through Old Nicosia and a traditional Cypriot dinner at Zanettos Tavern, added a rich cultural dimension to the program and helped deepen connections between participants.

We also created a short video to capture some of the week’s most memorable moments, which can be viewed here.

Organizing this exchange was a true privilege, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants, presenters, and partners who made the SpicE Exchange Program in Cyprus such a meaningful success.