Digital Transformation of the Municipality of Ioannina: A Good Practice for Enhancing Digital Skills

In recent years, the Municipality of Ioannina has been pioneering in the field of digital transformation, carrying out a series of coordinated interventions, actions, choices and strategic planning. This comprehensive effort resulted in the formulation of a 10-year Digital Strategy, which is aligned with national and European directions, as well as with the needs of the local community. The Digital Strategy was conceived as a dynamic document, which is constantly updated through consultations with local stakeholders. It includes the vision, the guidelines for digital interventions, as well as a roadmap with concrete actions, which are adapted according to available resources and funding opportunities.

A key element of the new strategy is the transformation of municipal services to enhance the supply of user-friendly digital services that meet the needs of citizens and businesses. The ultimate goal is to use information and communication technologies as tools for modern governance and development, thus creating “Smart Ioannina”, a city ready for the future.

Implementation of the Four Pillars of Digital Skills & Jobs Platform

This initiative addresses directly the four pillars of the Digital Skills & Jobs Platform. It promotes digital skills for all citizens by offering free programs such as the Cisco Networking Academy to a wide range of citizens. It targets specific groups, such as older people over 65, helping them acquire basic digital skills. In addition, it integrates digital tools into the local economy, especially for businesses in the tourism sector, through initiatives such as “Grow Greece with Google”.

Targeting and Impact

This initiative is aimed at a wide range of users, including citizens, businesses and vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities, single parents and the elderly. By providing comprehensive education and access to digital services, the Municipality ensures that these groups will not be left behind in the digital age. The effects are evident in improved services, faster response times and overall improved user experience. The focus on digital training and upskilling is also evident, with the aim of making the local workforce more competitive and better equipped for the demands of the digital economy.

Sustainability and Reproduction Ability

The digital transformation of the Municipality of Ioannina is an example of good practice in enhancing digital skills. The initiative is not only committed to equipping the target audience with relevant skills, but also provides a comprehensive and transparent framework that can inspire and guide similar projects across Europe. With a focus on integration, sustainability and innovation, it aspires to be a role model for other municipalities that want to embrace the digital future. It exploits the potential offered by digital technologies for the benefit of citizens and tourism development. For example, advanced digital tools such as a 3D optical scanner are used to preserve cultural heritage.

Information and visual material were collected from the website of the Municipality of Ioannina andNSRF 2021-2027