5G Metro

The 5G Metro project aims to revolutionize inclusivity in education by deploying a cutting-edge 5G Standalone network infrastructure at the IMREDD campus of Université Côte d’Azur in Nice, France. By integrating telepresence robots developed by Awabot, the project seeks to enhance the learning experience for remote students, particularly those facing social isolation due to hospitalization or home care.

Addressing the Challenges of Distance Learning

In today’s digitally connected world, distance learning has become essential for ensuring accessibility and flexibility in education. However, students confined to their homes or hospital settings often experience social isolation, which prevents them from fully participating in educational activities. The 5G Metro project addresses this critical challenge by leveraging the high speed and low latency of 5G technology to create an engaging and inclusive learning environment.

What the Project Will Achieve

The 5G Metro project, funded by the European Commission, is set to span three years and will deliver:

• A fully functional 5G Standalone network within the university campus.
• Integration of telepresence robots designed specifically for educational purposes.
• Development of tailored use cases to support students who cannot physically attend classes.

This infrastructure will empower remote students to seamlessly participate in lessons, interact with their peers and teachers, and access educational resources. By doing so, it will foster an inclusive and engaging learning experience for all.

Driving Innovation with AI and Mixed Reality

In addition to deploying 5G and telepresence robots, the project will develop mixed reality applications to enable innovative pedagogical approaches. Through collaboration with the I3S laboratory, these solutions will leverage artificial intelligence and immersive environments to create:

• Interactive and adaptive educational content tailored to each student’s needs.
• Dynamic learning experiences that optimize engagement for all students, including those attending remotely.

By merging 5G technology, robotics, and mixed reality tools, 5G Metro becomes a powerful driver of inclusive education and the future of pedagogy, offering immersive and participatory learning experiences that ensure equal access to knowledge.

Advanced Navigation for Telepresence Robots

The 5G network will also deliver exceptional quality of service for robot navigation, enabling:

• Vertical and horizontal mobility to traverse complex university environments.
• High-speed, low-latency performance for fluid and efficient navigation.

This capability is crucial for telepresence robots to overcome obstacles and reach diverse locations across the campus, ensuring a seamless and adaptive experience for students.

Building the Future of Education

With its focus on merging education, telecommunications, and robotic outreach, the 5G Metro project represents a groundbreaking step toward inclusive and innovative education. By creating a scalable and replicable model, the project aims to inspire similar initiatives across Europe and beyond, contributing to the EU’s mission of fostering accessible, community-connected educational institutions.

5G Metro is funded by the European Union through Connecting Europe Facility. The project was signed at the Salon des Maires in Paris in November 2024 by Jean-François Fallacher, CEO of Orange France, Jeanick Brisswalter, president of Université Côte d’Azur, and Jérémie Koessler, president of Awabot. Stay tuned for updates as 5G Metro reshapes the possibilities of distance learning and inclusive education!