Dr Nansia Kyriakou, Lecturer in the Department of Education, received the award in the European Language Label category at this year's European Innovative Teaching Awards (EITA). Dr Kyriakou and her team were recognized for the European project RE.MA.C. (Reinventing Mainstream Classroom). 

The project was coordinated by Frederick University and implemented in collaboration with European organisations CARDET (Cyprus), Democritus University of Thrace (Greece), the University of Algarve (Portugal), CESIE (Italy) and SOS Malta (Malta).

The Frederick University research team comprised Dr Nansia Kyriakou, Vice Rector for Educational Strategy and Academic Development Professor Nikleia Eteokleous, Dr Rafaella Neofytou, Dr Katerina Michael, Dr Despo Kyprianou and Theodora Patsalidou.

The RE.MA.C. project aims to transform language education through innovative, inclusive and holistic pedagogical approaches that respond to the needs of today’s linguistically and culturally diverse classrooms. As part of the project, an innovative hybrid learning model, more than 2,000 educational activities for all primary school grades, and a personalised artificial intelligence tool were developed to support teaching in multicultural and linguistically diverse learning environments. In parallel, more than 2,000 teachers received training through the project, further promoting the integration of its outcomes into educational practice.

The Rector of Frederick University, Professor George Demosthenous, stated:

“I warmly congratulate our distinguished colleague, Dr Nansia Kyriakou, and the research team on this significant European distinction. The recognition of the RE.MA.C. project acknowledges Frederick University’s sustained efforts to promote educational innovation, research and inclusion, making a meaningful contribution to shaping a more modern and equitable educational environment. At the same time, it highlights the importance of European cooperation and the use of technology to address real educational needs. Such distinctions encourage us to continue investing in initiatives that enhance the quality of education and create new opportunities for everyone.”

The European Innovative Teaching Award is an initiative of the European Commission, funded through the Erasmus+ programme. Its aim is to showcase and recognise the work of teachers and schools by highlighting innovative teaching practices and strengthening European cooperation in education through transnational initiatives.

In 2026, a total of 112 Erasmus+ projects from 30 countries received awards. Five of the distinctions were awarded to European projects in Cyprus, including Frederick University’s RE.MA.C. project. The awards are presented by the Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes (IDEP), the National Agency responsible for managing the Erasmus+ programme in Cyprus.

The award ceremony took place on 17 October 2026, as part of the Erasmus Festival 2026. The award was presented to Dr Kyriakou by Professor Petros Pashiardis, Chair of the Board of Directors of IDEP.