SeaTecHub consortium partners, 20000 Leagues, in collaboration with experts from the University of Zadar, organized a successful Blue Café Workshop/Roundtable titled “Let’s Talk About the Blue: Marine Explorations – Who, How, and Why?”. This event was part of the ongoing efforts to engage students in the blue sector, with a focus on marine ecology, aquaculture, environmental protection, and sustainable management of marine resources.
Key contributors to the event included Assistant Professor and Researcher Melita Mokos and Assistant Professor and Researcher Ivana Zubak Čižmek from the Department of Ecology, Agronomy, and Aquaculture at the University of Zadar. Both are renowned experts in marine ecology, selected for their vast experience and contributions to the blue sector. They provided invaluable insights into the academic and practical aspects of marine work, helping bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world applications.
Target Audience: The workshop was aimed at students currently enrolled in blue sector programs, including ecology, marine protection, aquaculture, and resource management at the University of Zadar. A total of 20 students participated in the event.
Main Topics Covered:
- Career Opportunities in the Blue Sector: Discussions focused on potential job paths in marine ecology, aquaculture, environmental protection, and marine resource management. Both research-based and practical roles were highlighted, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the sector’s breadth.
- Working in the Blue Sector: Experts from 20kL and the University of Zadar shared their experiences and day-to-day responsibilities as marine professionals. Topics included conducting biodiversity studies, managing sustainable fisheries, and protecting coastal ecosystems.
The workshop fostered an informal and relaxed atmosphere, encouraging students to engage with the experts, ask questions, and actively participate in knowledge-sharing sessions. Smaller breakout discussions allowed for deeper dives into specific topics, creating a highly interactive and educational experience.
The workshop lasted for approximately 3 hours, with time for open discussions, networking, and smaller group sessions to ensure a productive and engaging event for all participants.
This Blue Café event succeeded in creating an inspiring environment for students to explore career opportunities in the blue sector and learn from leading professionals in marine ecology and aquaculture.
