European Commission - Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology
European Commission - Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology
10/09/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/09/2025 08:44
Merging Education, Telecommunications and Robotic Outreach (5G METRO)
Focusing on education and healthcare, this project will enable the development of new approaches to education and training in universities.
| Location | France - Nice |
| Sectors | Education, healthcare |
| Network type | 5G standalone (SA) hybrid mobile private network (MPN) |
| Project start - end date (duration) |
1 December 2024 - 30 November 2027 (36 months) |
| Total budget | €3.0 million |
| EU contribution | €2.3 million |
| Lead entity / organisation | Orange SA |
| Beneficiaries and partners |
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The purpose of the project is to enhance inclusion in education through distance learning and the use of fluid, real-time video communication linked with mobile telepresence robots.
To achieve this, the project will deploy a 5G standalone (SA) hybrid mobile private network (MPN) in Nice, France.
What will it provide?
The project will enhance education and digital inclusion, strengthening inclusive, interactive and sustainable educational experiences. It seeks to transform learning and healthcare experiences by integrating telepresence robots and immersive technologies.
How will it work?
The project's 5G SA hybrid MPN will enable the implementation of two use cases:
- Augmented telepresence - The network will enable robots to enhance online learning and address social gaps through immersive human-robot interaction. Student volunteers will engage with robots, integrating mixed-reality content and controlling robot navigation. This innovative approach fosters social connection in online environments, providing emotional and psychological support while boosting engagement through interactive learning. In addition, robots operated by remote students will serve as physical avatars, allowing them to interact directly with classmates and participate fully in classroom experiences.
- Telepresence in mobility - The network will allow students to navigate the campus via robots, attending lessons or meeting peers remotely. During the pilot phase, both direct interaction and remote-controlled participation will be tested. Feedback from remote and in-person students will help refine protocols for human-robot interaction, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all participants.
How will it be built?
The project will implement a 5G SA hybrid MPN to ensure secure connectivity for educational and healthcare applications. The equipment includes fibre connections, user plane functions, secure local area network access, and edge computing resources.
How can I find out more about the project?
The European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HaDEA)
Contact HaDEA
Find more information
- Visit the project page in the EU Funding and Tenders Portal (europa.eu)
- Project website
Related topics
Creating a digital society Digital connectivity 5G/6G Connecting Europe Facility Funding for Digital
European Commission - Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology published this content on October 09, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 09, 2025 at 14:44 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]