CARDET Highlights Digital Literacy and Language Learning at Limassol Book Fair 2024

CARDET was a key participant in the 3rd Limassol International Book Fair, held at the Lanitis Carob Mill from November 22-24, 2024. The Fair brought together over 30 prominent speakers and panelists from across Europe and the Middle East, offering a dynamic forum for the publishing and literary communities to discuss emerging trends and share expertise. CARDET’s presence underscored its commitment to advancing digital literacy, language learning, and community engagement.

One of CARDET’s significant contributions was the keynote address and panel discussion on The Role of Libraries in Promoting Digital Skills, held on November 22. CARDET’s Executive Director, Dr. Charalambos Vrasidas, delivered an insightful keynote on Artificial Intelligence, Literacy, and Life Skills, exploring how AI is reshaping literacy education and how libraries can equip communities with essential digital skills for the future. 

Following his talk, a panel titled Emerging Digital Skills in the Age of Artificial Intelligence featured experts including: 

• Dr. Christos Anagiotos, Director of the Pedagogical Support Unit for E-Learning at the University of Nicosia; 
• Christos Christofides, Member of Parliament for the Education Committee; and 
• Giorgos Glossiotis, a librarian and member of the Regional Committee of Europe for IFLA. 

The panel was moderated by Andreas K. Andreou, Head of Systems and IT at the University of Cyprus Library. Together, they discussed the evolving roles of libraries in fostering digital literacy, promoting inclusive policies, and serving as key community resources for lifelong learning and skill-building across all ages. Dr. Vrasidas, emphasized the importance of the PartnerUP and LeaderAI Projects, which CARDET is implementing in Cyprus, and explained how these initiatives contribute to skill upgrading, create opportunities for adults, and strengthen their participation in lifelong learning.

On November 24, CARDET’s BoysLingo team engaged young participants in a workshop titled Learning a New Language Through Gamified Scenarios on Mobile Devices. This interactive session invited educators, parents, and children aged 10-14 to experience a gamified approach to language acquisition. Through mobile-based scenarios, participants explored effective language-learning techniques in an engaging, hands-on environment. Attendees also received access to free online resources to continue their language education journey.

The Limassol International Book Fair, now in its third year, continues to grow as a cultural landmark, bringing together diverse stakeholders, including publishers, educators, and librarians. CARDET’s contributions at the event showcased its commitment to innovative learning and digital literacy, reinforcing the organization’s role as a leader in education and community development in Cyprus and beyond.