Training Seminar for Primary and Secondary Education Teachers by the Municipality of Oraiokastro and IMMA

With great success, on Friday, December 5th, 2025, the training seminar jointly organized by the Municipality of Oraiokastro and the Foundation of the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle and Modern History of Macedonia (IMMA) took place in the “Nelly Deli” hall of the Pavlos Melas building. The seminar is part of the research project “Research and documentation services for historical material concerning the area of the expanded Municipality of Oraiokastro (1897–1922),” running from 2024 to 2025, carried out by the two institutions.

The purpose of the initiative was to present the results of the historical research and highlight ways in which this documented material can be used in educational practice through best practices, methodological tools, and specially designed educational programs. Participating teachers had the opportunity to explore methods for incorporating historical sources, oral history elements, and research processes into teaching scenarios that illuminate the significance of Oraiokastro’s local history during the period 1897–1922.

The one-year research project, through extensive investigation in numerous historical archives, brought to light key aspects of the region’s historical trajectory—from the final years of the Ottoman presence and the Macedonian Struggle, to its role in the Balkan Wars and during World War I. Connecting these historical findings with the educational process was a central theme of the seminar.

In his greeting, the Mayor of Oraiokastro, Mr. Pantelis Tsakiris, emphasized:

“Local history is not merely a retrospective look at the past, but a foundation for understanding our collective identity. We are especially proud that through this project we provide teachers with documented material and modern tools that will enrich teaching and strengthen students’ connection with their place.”

He added: “We have launched a significant effort aimed at gathering, documenting, and showcasing valuable historical data of the Municipality of Oraiokastro, with the intention that all this knowledge will be shared with the students of our region.”

On behalf of IMMA, the Director of the Foundation, Ms. Athina Pavlidou, stated:

“IMMA remains committed to researching, documenting, and disseminating the modern history of Macedonia. Our collaboration with the Municipality of Oraiokastro is a model of synergy between local government and research institutions, resulting in the creation of material that can also be utilized by the educational community.”

The scientific coordination of the project was led by University of Macedonia Professor and Director of KEMIT–IMMA, Stavroula Mavrogeni, who presented the two new educational programs specifically designed for Primary and Secondary Education. As she noted:

“The analysis of historical sources, the use of oral testimonies, and participatory research constitute valuable tools for cultivating historical thinking and critical analysis. Through today’s workshop, we aimed to offer teachers practical methods that can meaningfully transform the teaching process.”

The seminar program included presentations by IMMA researchers — Dr. Konstantinos S. Papanikolaou, Bleonas Hotza, and Vaggelis Kansizoglou — as well as experiential workshops in which participants worked hands-on with the two educational programs. The workshop section allowed teachers to apply the new approaches, exchange experiences, and develop activities that link local history to the contemporary school environment.

The initiative concluded with exceptionally positive feedback from participants, confirming the need for continuing similar efforts that strengthen the educational community and highlight the historical and cultural identity of the region.