In an era where technology is an integral part of young people’s daily lives, the focus is not only on access to digital tools but also on using them to enhance wellbeing and quality of life. With this philosophy, the Vodafone Foundation continues to invest in education and innovation through the Generation Next programme, highlighting the creativity and potential of students across Greece.
The 9th National Generation Next Competition concluded with strong participation, attracting over 80 secondary school teams from across the country. With the central theme “Technology as an Ally: Digital Wellbeing through Technology,” students were asked to design and develop solutions that address real-life challenges, using programming tools, artificial intelligence, and creative engineering.
The ideas presented demonstrated that the new generation does not simply use technology but can transform it into a problem-solving tool while promoting a balanced and healthy digital life.
Artificial Intelligence Enhances Focus
The first prize went to the team from Theodoropoulou Schools in Chania, Crete, for their CALMify AI solution. The “smart” device uses artificial intelligence to improve students’ concentration during study sessions.
The device detects signs of stress, such as changes in posture or facial expressions, and automatically plays personalised relaxing music without interrupting the user. Using an AI camera, microcontroller, creative programming, and 3D design, CALMify AI creates a supportive learning environment that helps students manage stress and maintain focus.
The team will represent Greece in the European final of the Skills Upload Jr Challenge on 27 March, with the prize including a three-day educational experience trip to London.
Smart Solutions for Healthy Digital Habits
Second place went to the team from the 1st Model Gymnasium of Mytilene with Micro-Posture, a system addressing a modern problem: poor posture and physical strain from extended screen use.
The system consists of two micro:bit devices. The first is wearable and monitors neck position, alerting the user when adjustment is needed. The second sits on the desk and monitors screen distance, reminding the user to take breaks and perform simple exercises. With real-time feedback, Micro-Posture gradually helps students adopt healthier digital habits.
Protecting Eye Health
Third place went to the team from the EduRobots Educational Robotics Centre in Ierapetra, Crete, for their EyeBlink Tracker. This device focuses on eye fatigue caused by prolonged screen exposure.
It tracks the user’s blink rate via a sensor and compares it to the normal rate. When a significant decrease occurs, it reminds the user to take a break, reducing eye strain and encouraging conscious screen-time management.
The top three teams will receive state-of-the-art technology, including laptops, bionic robots, and smartwatches, further enabling their ability to create and innovate.
Through initiatives like Generation Next, the Vodafone Foundation invests in the digital skills of the next generation, encouraging students to turn their ideas into solutions that can make a real difference in society.
The programme is a Vodafone Foundation initiative implemented in collaboration with the educational non-profit SciCo – Science Communication and the academic contribution of the Hellenic-German Education Academy.
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