The European University of the Seas (SEA-EU), representing an alliance of nine coastal universities across Europe, is dedicated to its mission in redefining higher education. One pioneering effort in this vision focuses on a Joint Bachelor's Degree in Sustainable Blue Economy (SBE) to address the escalating global demand for ocean-related services and the need for sustainable management of marine resources.
The SBE undergraduate course that should be launched in the upcoming academic years, will encompass a broad spectrum of blue economy sectors. By integrating interdisciplinary studies in science and economics with practical training, the curriculum will produce graduates equipped to foster innovation, problem solving skills to address real-world sustainability challenges, and capitalise on the potential of the blue economy.
Dr Adam Gauci from the Department of Geosciences has been instrumental in the shaping of the program from its conceptual stages. Between 26 and 29 February, he attended the Academic Committee Meeting at the University of Cadiz in Spain during which the program, degree structure, design of the final year project, and the organisation of the student internships, were refined. Discussions at the meeting also resulted in progress on the governance framework and the accreditation process.
SEA-EU is all about building an in-depth institutional cooperation that provides seamless mobility opportunities for the participating universities. This educational approach is embedded within the long-term vision of the alliance and aims at creating experiences for the students that extend beyond traditional teaching. The focus is also on joint research, joint project implementation and management, as well as on the transfer of best practices.