The sectors within the Blue Economy are currently challenged with the evolving societal and economical climate. In response, Ghent University (Belgium) and the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (Ireland) have collaborated on a new short course 'Emerging Issues in the Blue Economy'.
The Blue Economy encompasses all economic activities that depend on the sea, such as coastal tourism and fishing. The evolving society and technologies has also given rise to some new marine and maritime industries such as deep sea mining and renewable offshore energy. The current economical and societal climate, however, presents some immediate and long-term challenges to which both traditional as newly emerging sectors have to respond. These challenges do not necessary have to present a hurdle, but can also be presented as possibilities to evolve and provide considerable opportunities for growth. In order to respond to these challenges, the University of Ghent and GMIT provides with this course an overview of all the traditional and newly emerging marine and maritime sectors within the Blue Economy, focusing on their current status, challenges, but also opportunities and perspectives. This course, as such, aims to provide its participants with the necessary knowledge to act upon these challenges. In addition, you will learn some basics in economics which further aids you to pursue a career in the different sectors within the Blue Economy.
Programme
Day 1 focuses on some introductory concepts such as an introduction to the Blue Economy including some basic concepts in economy and entrepreneurship, but also an introduction to relevant policy strategies for the industry.
Day 2 focuses on traditional marine and maritime sectors. An introduction to these sectors will be given with an additional focus on the current bottlenecks and possible evolutions and prospects. Sectors such as fisheries; aquaculture; coastal tourism; oil, gas and mineral extraction; and shipping will be covered.
Day 3 focuses on newly emerging marine and maritime sectors. An introduction to these sectors will be given with a focus on the innovative aspects within these sectors and how these sectors are further evolving within the Blue Economy. Sectors such as renewable energy; deep sea mining; drones; research; algae production; and coastal protection are covered.
Day 4 focuses on some academic concepts crucial for the understanding of the ever changing blue industry. Topics such as nature based solutions; ecosystem services and sustainability; and marine spatial planning are covered.
Day 5 is a day full of excursions as we visit several sites in Ostend relevant for the marine and maritime industry. Sites such as The Flemish Fish Auction; The Flemish Marine Institute; and The Port of Ostend will be visited.
After the physical week in Bluebridge, you will also have the opportunity to put your newly obtained knowledge to the test and perform a digital group project.
For whom?
Already obtained a (scientific) Master’s degree and interested in pursuing a career in the Blue Economy? Already have some first experiences in marine or maritime sectors and you have basic scientific knowledge? Then this is the course for you! Even if you are already active in the field and looking to expand your knowledge, you are welcome to join.
Practical
This unique short blended course will take place from the 10th to the 14th of January 2022 physically at Bluebridge in Ostend, Belgium (under precondition of the COVID-19 measures). The main language will be English. Sandwich lunches, coffee/water, and an opening reception are included. We do not provide accommodation, however, feel free to ask us for suggestions! Bluebridge is easily accesible by car and parking is free (Wetenschapspark 1, 8400 Ostend). We also provide a shuttle between the train station in Ostend and Bluebridge when traveling by train.
Application
Application is possible via the ‘Apply now’ button at the top of this page. Leave your details with a short motivation and CV. You will receive information on your admittance within one week after application. Registration is official after receiving payment. Application closes the 20th of December 2021.
COVID-19
All information is subject to the COVID-19 measurements.