A new kind of water professional

AquaSMART trains students to understand how aquatic ecosystems function, how they are affected by pollution and climate change, and how nature-based and biotechnological approaches can be used to protect and restore them. The programme aims to produce graduates who are able to work across disciplines, communicate with different stakeholders and translate scientific knowledge into practical management actions.

Core focus areas

• Aquatic ecology and environmental processes in marine and inland waters.
  
• Nature-based solutions for prevention, mitigation and adaptation in the face of climate and pollution pressures.
  
• Biotechnological applications related to water quality, monitoring, remediation and sustainable use of resources.
  
• Data analysis, modelling, digital tools and decision support for ecosystem management.
  
• Socioeconomic, legal and governance aspects of water and climate resilience.

Learning design and methods

The INNAQUE BSc curriculum is organised over four years and is structured around competence-based learning outcomes that build progressively from basics to advanced applications. Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork, case studies, simulations and project-based teamwork, supported by a collaborative online platform and open educational resources.

4-year programme

• Competence-based learning outcomes progress from fundamentals to advanced applications through diverse teaching methods including lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork, case studies, simulations and project-based teamwork.

Study and training opportunities

AquaSMART includes opportunities for student mobility between partner universities in Egypt, South Africa and Europe, as well as short visits, joint workshops and virtual exchanges. These experiences allow students to compare different aquatic environments, policies and management practices, and to build international networks for future study and employment.

• International mobility
  Study exchanges between Egypt, South Africa and Europe
  
• Joint workshops
  Collaborative learning with international peers
  
• Virtual exchanges
  Digital collaboration across continents

Where AquaSMART can lead

AquaSMART includes opportunities for student mobility between partner universities in Egypt, South Africa and Europe, as well as short visits, joint workshops and virtual exchanges. These experiences allow students to compare different aquatic environments, policies and management practices, and to build international networks for future study and employment.

• Environmental agencies and ministries working on water, climate and biodiversity.
  
• Consulting and engineering companies involved in water treatment, coastal management and environmental impact assessment.
  
• Industries that rely on sustainable water use, including agriculture, aquaculture, energy and food production.
  
• Research institutions, NGOs and international organisations focusing on aquatic ecosystems and climate resilience.
  
• Further studies in master’s and doctoral programmes in related fields.
  

Current stage of development

In Development

The consortium is finalising the INNAQUE BSc curriculum, accreditation processes and teaching materials at partner universities. Pilot deliveries, staff training and the first student intakes will be announced through the project’s news and events channels, where prospective students and stakeholders can follow the programme’s rollout and opportunities for participation.