In the framework of the MEDMAS project, Work Package 34 (WP34) took center stage with an innovative public-facing workshop designed to bring media literacy education directly into the community. Held on June 19 during the vibrant Pinios Festival in Larissa, the workshop marked a unique opportunity to engage a wide and diverse audience in the fight against disinformation.
The event was set in the Municipal Youth Council’s dedicated pavilion, which acted as both a symbolic and practical space for dialogue, interactivity, and community engagement. By choosing to host the workshop in the heart of a major cultural festival, the organizers ensured maximum visibility and inclusivity, attracting not only young people but also families, educators, local NGOs, and public officials—including the Mayor of Larissa, who actively participated in the activities.
Mayor of Larisa, trying out the MEDMAS board game
At the core of the workshop was the MediaMasters educational game, which was adapted for use in a large, open-space format to suit the festival setting. This gamified approach allowed attendees to experience the challenges of identifying fake news in a tangible and interactive way, promoting active learning through play. The immediacy and accessibility of the game format proved highly effective in capturing attention and provoking thoughtful conversations about digital responsibility.
The WP34 workshop emphasized experiential learning, reflecting the project's belief that true understanding comes from doing. Participants were encouraged to reflect on their own media consumption habits, engage with peers in discussion, and test their knowledge in a collaborative and supportive environment. The format fostered a sense of shared responsibility and collective empowerment, aligning with MEDMAS’s broader mission to counteract disinformation through community-centered education.
A standout feature of the event was once again the involvement of the Municipal Youth Council, whose organizational and communicative expertise played a critical role in the success of the initiative. By acting as a bridge between institutional stakeholders and grassroots participants, the Council helped to ensure that the event was both relevant and impactful. Their efforts in mobilizing local youth and maintaining an intergenerational dialogue strengthened the sense of ownership and long-term engagement among attendees.
Through this large-scale, publicly accessible event, WP34 succeeded in turning media literacy into a lived community experience. It demonstrated that educational efforts can extend beyond classroom walls, reaching citizens in informal, yet meaningful ways. The workshop served as a compelling example of how to embed digital literacy in the fabric of local life, reinforcing the values of democratic participation, critical thinking, and civic resilience.
By meeting people where they are, both physically and in terms of their media understanding—WP34 helped solidify MEDMAS’s reputation as a forward-thinking, impact-driven initiative committed to equipping citizens of all ages to navigate the challenges of today’s digital media landscape.