Athena Research Center Showcases EU Code Week at European Researchers’ Night 2025

On Friday, 26 September 2025, the Athena Research Center and City Lab participated in the European Researchers’ Night 2025, hosting activities in both Athens and Xanthi. The events attracted thousands of visitors who had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge research projects and engage with science in an accessible and interactive way.

Athens – Inspiring Creativity and Problem-Solving at NTUA

The Athena Research Center and City Lab successfully participated in the European Researchers’ Night 2025, held at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA). The team presented EU Code Week through interactive activities that captured the interest of both children and adults. In particular, children together with their parents participated and were informed about Code Week, highlighting the value of computational thinking as a skill for problem-solving, creativity development, and fostering collaboration.

The children also had the opportunity to explore computer science through the Scratch program, solving some open challenges from the Bebras competition with the guidance of Sophia Drakaki and Junior Mentor Thodoris Sarras. The participation of the Athena Research Center at NTUA highlighted the importance of disseminating scientific knowledge through engaging and hands-on activities, strengthening the connection between research and society.

Xanthi – Bringing Computational Thinking to Local Communities

At the same time, Athena Research Center actively participated within the framework of MEDNIGHT in the European Researchers’ Night 2025 in Xanthi, attracting a large number of visitors, families, and students. During the event, the research team presented EU Code Week through a series of interactive activities. There was particularly strong engagement from children and teenagers who participated together with their parents, experiencing firsthand how computational thinking can contribute to the development of analytical, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills.

The presence of the Athena Research Center at the Researchers’ Night in Xanthi underscored the value of scientific outreach and the accessibility of knowledge in local communities, reinforcing the vital connection between research and citizens.

A Shared Commitment to Digital Skills

Across both events, Athena Research Center showcased the importance of fostering computational thinking and coding skills for the next generation. By engaging citizens in interactive and accessible activities, the events demonstrated how initiatives like EU Code Week can empower learners, educators, and families across Europe.