By Marianna Charalampous

Since October 2024, something extraordinary has been rolling along the roads of Cyprus – a minivan unlike any other, designed to spark curiosity and bring the wonders of the Mediterranean Sea to students across the island. Introducing MedOnWheels, a Mobile Education Centre launched by the Enalia Physis Environmental Research Centre, created to reconnect children and educators with the magic of the marine world.

The initiative began as a dream within the Enalia Physis team – a vision to immerse young minds in the beauty and importance of our marine ecosystems. When presented to the Exness CSR team, the vision was immediately embraced.

“At Exness, we believe education and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Supporting MedOnWheels is part of our mission to build a more informed and sustainable future,” said Martin, CSR Director at Exness.

With Exness’s financial support, that vision took shape – and MedOnWheels set off on its journey, transforming schoolyards into vibrant, hands-on learning spaces.

At a time when many children are increasingly distanced from the natural world, MedOnWheels serves as a traveling classroom that meets them right where they are. Its mission? To spark environmental awareness, ignite curiosity, and foster a deep sense of responsibility for the Mediterranean’s fragile marine life.

Fully outfitted with interactive, sensory-friendly educational tools, including Virtual Reality, 360-degree videos, 3D mockups, and stereoscopes, this one-of-a-kind vehicle delivers an immersive experience that educates not just the mind – but the heart and senses, too.

“Today’s classrooms often lack real-world interaction with nature,” explains Marios Papageorgiou, Director of Enalia Physis. “With MedOnWheels, we’re making environmental education more accessible, more exciting, and more impactful – directly on students’ doorsteps.”

Using a blended learning approach with student-centered workshops, MedOnWheels promotes critical thinking, creativity, teamwork and STEM exploration. Students are encouraged to ask questions, build hypotheses and explore the marine world through hands-on activities and problem-solving.

Since its launch, the initiative has already engaged over 1,405 students across Cyprus, receiving enthusiastic praise from both students and educators. Teachers have applauded the programme for enriching their curricula and delivering an unforgettable educational experience.

And this is just the beginning. Enalia Physis is committed to expanding the programme to reach every corner of the island, with a special focus on underserved and rural communities where access to environmental education is limited. The long-term goal? To inspire a generation of young Cypriots who are informed, passionate and empowered to protect their natural heritage.

Whether your school is in a bustling city or a quiet village, MedOnWheels is ready to visit. Together, we can raise a new wave of marine guardians – one school at a time.

The programme is offered free of charge to Primary and Secondary Schools across Cyprus, proudly funded by Exness.

Ready to bring the sea to your school? Call us at 99886927 or email us at [email protected] to book your visit.

Let’s inspire the next generation of ocean protectors – one classroom, one child, one journey at a time.

Marianna Charalampous is Science Communication and Social Media Manager at Enalia Physis Environmental Research Center