AQUA-TNET Annual Meeting 2008

AQUA-TNET held its 2nd Annual Event in Krakow (Poland), in conjunction with EAS2008. Each Work Package presented the highlights from their activities over the past three years, which showed how much the network has achieved during that time. A PhD database, with links to full Ph.D. manuscripts, abstracts, related articles and author information, was officially launched. The AQUA-TNET Ph.D. portal is constructed as a valuable information and research tool, gathering scientific and background information on finished doctoral research work throughout Europe. AQUA-TNET members are also working on an online database for all Master Programmes and Courses in the sector, which will be expanded fully in the new phase AQUA-TNET 2008-11. Other highlights presented were the TUNING template for the Aquaculture sector, giving amongst other aspects, European degree profiles, typical occupations in the sector, and level cycle descriptors based on learning outcomes and competences, and a database of potential mobility exchanges, including recommendations and a good practice guide.

Based on the work done in the vertical Work Packages, representatives from Industry, Research and Consumers had the opportunity to comment and express their practices and needs to the academic community. The group discussion regarding whether higher education institutions are able to meet the lifelong learning needs of an innovative aquaculture industry, showed that Higher Education Institutions are still uncertain with regard to their role in the provision of lifelong learning within industry sector - whatever this role might be!  This is an issue that might merit further consideration.

As AQUA-TNET activities increase, so does its relevance and influence. With the recently approved Community co-funding the network now has an excellent opportunity to build upon the first phase and continue this long-running network (1996-2008) in AQUA-TNET2008-11. The new programme will allow the network to continue its important work of helping the sectors covered to contribute to the creation of a European Higher Education Area. The renewal will allow the network to review priorities and activities and make any improvements necessary to help meet the needs of all stakeholders.